27th Annual California River Awards

We’re still feeling the energy and inspiration from the 27th Annual California River Awards—and we’re so grateful you were part of it.

Thanks to your generosity and the shared commitment of our incredible community, we’re proud to share that we raised $105,000 to protect California’s rivers.

Because of you, we are able to:

  • Push back against destructive dams and water diversions
  • Restore vital river habitat for salmon and other native species
  • Empower communities to speak up and take action for their rivers

Your support is more than a donation—it’s a powerful statement that these rivers matter.

2025 California River Awards Honoree

Bring Back the Kern
Bring Back the Kern is a community-driven group of Bakersfield residents united by their love for both their town and the Kern River. This all-volunteer organization brings together people from all walks of life with a shared commitment to preserving the river.
 
For millennia, the Kern River has been a lifeline. Historically, its waters supported over 428,000 acres of wetlands across the Tulare Basin. Today, the Kern’s flow provides water to more than half a million people and nourishes nearly 200,000 acres of farmland. Yet, the last 30 miles of the river are dry.
 
The people of Bakersfield are left without a river, and plants and animals have lost their vital water source. Meanwhile, an ancient aquifer is drying up. Bring Back the Kern works tirelessly to restore a healthy water system that supports farming, wildlife, and the local community.
 
Join us in celebrating their accomplishments!

Join Our Team

We are seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Lead Scientist to spearhead our technical and analytical efforts in protecting and restoring California’s rivers and estuaries. This full-time position offers an exciting opportunity to apply science-based strategies to influence public policy, evaluate water management projects, and advocate for sustainable aquatic ecosystems. Apply today!

Saving California rivers is up to us

With your support, we can work together to restore flows where excessive diversions reduce flows, to improve hydropower operations to benefit people and fish, to fight destructive reservoirs, and to strengthen river protections.

Friends of the River

Committed to becoming a more powerful voice for a climate resilient water future in California with healthy rivers, equal access to safe and affordable drinking water, and a thriving, sustainable economy for all Californians.
OUR WORK

Friends of the River works not just to preserve our rivers, but to change how people think about them—not as a resource to be exploited, but as a treasure to be enjoyed.
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