California River Awards

Join Friends of the River for the 28th Annual California River Awards on April 24, 2026, at The Verdi Club in San Francisco for an evening celebrating Rivers of Change—the rivers, science, and collective action shaping a healthier future for California. This year, we are honored to recognize climate scientist Daniel Swain, Ph.D., for his leadership in helping us understand the connections between climate, water, and resilience in a changing world.

The night will feature fun, food, an inspiring program, and fantastic auction. There will be plenty of time to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones who share a love for rivers. This event is FOR’s most important fundraiser, and must bring in almost 25% of FOR’s total 2026 donations. Come raise a glass, celebrate progress, and help fuel the work ahead. Tickets go on sale in February 16th.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED - We are looking for volunteers to help with preparation and on the day of the fundraiser. Email our Engagement Manager, Daniel Belshe for more details at dbelshe@friendsoftheriver.org

DONATE AUCTION ITEMS - You can help power our fundraiser by donating a new silent or live auction item—such as a vacation home stay, trip, massage, or other unique experience—that will inspire generous bids in support of our work. Contact our Operations Director, Amy Cottrell with your donation and questions at amy@friendsoftheriver.org

We’re still feeling the energy and inspiration from the 27^th 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.

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.

28th Annual California River Awards - April, 24th 2026

Tickets go on Sale February 2026

27th Annual California River Awards - April, 25th 2025

2025 California River Award Honoree

Bring Back the Kern

Thank You to our Event Sponsors

Thank You to our Auction Donors