Tuolumne River Trust

The Tuolumne River Trust

EST. 1981

EDUCATE

Many of our supporters give out of their Donor Advised Fund. Learn more about how others are using their DAFs to make an even bigger impact.

Meet Eric Riemer, TRT Board Member

"Whether camping in the headwaters near Yosemite or floating down the lower Tuolumne, the beauty and grandeur of the river always leaves me feeling grounded and restored. My Donor Advised Fund enables me to support the Tuolumne River Trust while meeting my personal mission to protect the Tuolumne River."

- Eric and Daisy

GIVE GROW GRANT

It's the perfect time to maximize your tax deductions by considering Donor Advised Funds (DAFs). Many of our valued donors at the Tuolumne River Trust have chosen to give through DAFs, taking advantage of the increased standard minimum deduction from 2018. By giving a lump sum to your DAF, you may be eligible for even greater tax benefits than spreading your donations over multiple years.

With a Compound Average Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23 4% over the past five years, it's clear that DAFs are becoming increasingly popular By allocating your stocks, mutual funds, and other assets, you may be able to enjoy up to 70% tax savings on your gift while also avoiding capital gains and receiving a tax deduction

*This is not meant as tax advice Consult your tax advisor for what is best for you

Discover how DAFs are helping donors like you make an even greater impact, and learn more about how you can get involved today Scan the QR code or visit www.tuolumne.org/daf.

00

FROM THE DESK OF PATRICK KOEPELE

PG 01

CHAPTER 1

GEOGRAPHY

PG 02

CHAPTER 2

AN INTRO TO THE TUOLUMNE RIVER TRUST

PG 06

CHAPTER 3

ADVOCACY

PG 10

CHAPTER 4

EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY ORGANIZING

PG 17

CHAPTER 5

RESTORATION

PG 22

PUBLISHED 2023

From the desk of Patrick Koepele

In 1981, a group of dedicated individuals came together with a shared goal in mind - to protect and preserve the Tuolumne River for generations to come. They envisioned a river that flowed undammed with abundance all year round, where rafting, kayaking, and fishing could continue to provide solace in nature, and where the beauty of the Tuolumne Canyon could remain unmarred. And so, the Tuolumne River Trust was born

After a remarkable victory in our inaugural Wild & Scenic Campaign, we expanded our vision to include the Tuolumne River through the Central Valley and the communities that rely on it

Through the years, we have made significant strides in moving towards this vision. We have worked tirelessly to protect and preserve the Tuolumne, its floodplains, and its surrounding forests. We have also made it our mission to build a base of grassroots support to create healthy, vibrant parks and green spaces for underserved communities We have planted trees, revitalized meadows, and built resilience back into the majestic forests of the Sierra Nevada and the greater Yosemite ecosystem

Our work and impact goes beyond the Tuolumne watershed, and has reached more communities, educated more young leaders, and made an even greater impact on the restoration of the Tuolumne River watershed and neighboring landscapes to the north and south, the Stanislaus and the Merced But we couldn't have done it alone The support and partnership of our members and partnerships have made this vision a reality. Together, we make a difference.

Today, the Tuolumne River Trust (TRT) continues to pave the way for a brighter future for the Tuolumne River and beyond. With the unwavering support and partnership of our members and supporters, we have the power to make a real, lasting impact on the preservation of the Tuolumne. We will continue to fight for the environment’s health and for the well-being of the communities that rely on it.

The Tuolumne has something to offer everyone. We hope that this publication shows you the breadth of the work being done to protect, restore, and inspire us to take care of this special region

F th Ri

Patrick Koepele, Executive Director

Chapter One: Geography

Diversity of Landscapes

The Tuolumne is a world class river that winds through some of the most iconic landscapes in the world. Over it’s 162-mile journey, the Tuolumne is the lifeblood of diverse communities from Yosemite to the San Francisco Bay.

The Tuolumne River’s 162 mile majestic journey originates high in the glaciers and towering granite peaks of Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada range The River meanders through the world renowned Tuolumne Meadows, and cascades down the slopes of the Sierra Nevada over waterfalls and through ancient valleys that were carved during the last Ice Age

After exiting the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne, the River flows into Hetch Hetchy, San Francisco’s water storage reservoir. Descending through the vast watershed forests of Stanislaus National Forest, the river leaves the mountains and flows west across the Central Valley to its confluence with the San Joaquin River, ultimately pouring into the San Francisco Bay where it provides drinking water to nearly 3 million people.

On this impressive journey across California, the Tuolumne passes through a multitude of diverse ecosystems, landscapes and communities, creating chains of interdependence between them all From mountain villages in the High Sierra, to the agricultural communities of the Central Valley, to the bustling cities of the San Francisco Bay Area, the Tuolumne River is a unifying and connecting force linking distant regions and people who depend upon it together, even though many are unaware of the full impact it has on them

Tuolumne Meadows

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada

The Tuolumne watershed, located in the greater Yosemite region and high in the Sierra Nevada, includes un-dammed, wild tributaries flowing through sculpted granite canyons, verdant meadows that host diverse wildlife, and expansive mixed conifer forests The headwater forests are an integral part of a complex hydrologic system, which river health and wildlife habitats depend on Forests provide clean water and sequester carbon but are now threatened by past and current catastrophic wildfires, pests, and years of drought In 2013, the Rim Fire foretold a story of exponential change and disturbance At the time, the Rim Fire was by far the largest wildfire recorded in the history of this region, which has sadly been surpassed by multiple devastating wildfires throughout the range in recent years The Rim Fire contributed as much carbon to the atmosphere as is produced by over 2.5 million cars in a year. Post-fire erosion degraded the normally clear Tuolumne River, while the most severely burned areas experienced extreme tree mortality and seed bank loss. Forests have struggled to naturally regenerate without reforestation and restoration efforts. Bringing back the River’s headwater forests is of the utmost importance in order to help maintain healthy watershed.

Central Valley

Flowing out of the golden foothills, the Tuolumne meanders through the San Joaquin Valley where some of the region’s oldest Valley Oaks arch from its banks. Healthy floodplains and river channels provide critical habitat for young Chinook Salmon and Steelhead Trout; the same fish that are reared in these waters continue their journey out to the San Francisco Bay, where they will spend the majority of their adult life in the Pacific Ocean before swimming back upstream to spawn. After salmon spawn, they die, decay, and contribute their nutrients back to the river and surrounding land, continuing the circle of life In this part of the watershed, about 200,000 acres of farmland is irrigated with water from the Tuolumne About 46% of the Tuolumne’s natural flow is diverted from the River near Don Pedro Dam and used to grow food that is consumed both locally and abroad Ensuring that there is enough water left in the River benefits not only the environment, but also our diverse and culturally rich local communities Through our educational programs, we provide safe access to the Tuolumne and empower multigenerational families in stewarding the land around their communities

Bay Area

After the Tuolumne has provided all of these benefits to our economies and communities, it joins the San Joaquin River and flows into the San Francisco Bay Delta, the largest estuary on the West Coast of the Americas, producing an explosion of biological diversity. In addition to Chinook Salmon and Steelhead Trout, a rich assortment of wildlife and plants depend on the Tuolumne’s flow in the Delta, including Delta smelt, sturgeon, and flocks of waterfowl and shorebirds. As the Tuolumne and other rivers in the Central Valley have suffered in recent years due to chronically poor water quality, so has the Delta, with many Delta-dependent fish and wildlife populations on the brink of extinction. Bringing the Delta back to health requires adequate inflow, which continues to be challenged by climate change and poor water management and government policy. Advocating for water policy that benefits both humans and the environment is vital to the future of our State of California and region.

Photo by Don Briggs

How it All Began

Recreation is at the heart of The Tuolumne River Trust's origin story TRT came into being after the fight to save the Stanislaus River from being dammed was lost Since the late 1960s, the Tuolumne had been similarly targeted for dams by the City of San Francisco A group of rafters, kayakers, anglers, family camp supporters and other advocates knew that the Tuolumne was worth saving, so they began to build a broad coalition of support that would ultimately end up with 83 miles of the River designated as Wild & Scenic by Congress on September 28, 1984.

What is a “Wild & Scenic River”?

Congress enacted the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (WSRA) in 1968, declaring it the “policy of the United States that certain selected rivers of the Nation which, with their immediate environments, possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural, or other similar values, shall be preserved in free-flowing condition, and that they and their immediate environments shall be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.” The Act is notable for encouraging river management that crosses political boundaries and promotes public participation in developing goals for river protection. California has approximately 189,454 miles of river, of which, 2,000 miles are designated as Wild & Scenic 1% of the state’s river miles.

Winning Wild & Scenic Protection

The successful campaign to save California’s Tuolumne River through the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act has been described as the greatest victory in the history of the Wild and Scenic Rivers system and one of the greatest conservation achievements of the century. The effort was the result of hard work and the assembly of unlikely allies, from commercial whitewater outfitters, private boaters, and anglers, to businesses and politically diverse proponents in Congress The permanent protection of the River under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was the culmination of sixteen years of diligence, persistence, and collaboration

Our origins are rooted in advocacy that ultimately secured a section of the River from further development We now enjoy the benefits of that labor on whitewater trips, fishing, hiking, and other activities As the needs of our communities and the environment continue to evolve due to competing demands and climate pressure, our advocacy has also evolved, shaping our work into the present day.

San Francisco announced the Clavey Wards Ferry Project, a proposal to construct up to 4 dams on the Tuolumne, Clavey, North Fork Tuolumne, and South Fork Tuolumne, primarily for hydroelectric power.

1969

On a flat rock near Lumsden Bridge, the Sierra Club established a task force named the Tuolumne River Conference. Their goal was to gain protection for the Tuolumne River under the Federal Wild & Scenic Rivers Act, which had been signed into law the prior year by President Johnson.

1979

The Stanislaus National Forest completed the Wild & Scenic River eligibility study, which favored protection over dams and determined that the Tuolumne River is “eligible” for designation as a Wild and Scenic River, creating a strong basis for protection. As required under the Wild and Scenic Rivers act, the determination initiated a three-year ban on development while Congress considered the report’s recommendations

1981

With less than one year of Wild and Scenic study protection remaining, a diverse group of Tuolumne lovers joined together to create the Tuolumne River Trust, then known as the Tuolumne River Preservation Trust.

1982

The Wild and Scenic Study protection for the Tuolumne expired. San Francisco and the Modesto and Turlock Irrigation Districts recommitted to the Clavey Wards Ferry dam-building project irregardless of public opposition

1983

The “T” was named “the most endangered river in the country ” TRT inspired a highly successful media campaign and generated letters from diverse interests supporting the “T” to freshman Senator Pete Wilson -more than any other issue before Congress. Senator Wilson’s support came on top of support from Senator Alan Cranston and Congressman Rick Lehman and was considered the final support needed to make its passage possible.

1984

After 16 years of organizing, Congress approved Wild & Scenic status for the Tuolumne, and Ronald Reagan signed it into law. Victory had been won!

Tuolumne River Outfitters & GuidesCongressional Trip - July 20, 1984.

Don Moyer and Barbara Boxer rafting the Tuolumne as a part of the Wild and Scenic campaign

Photos sourced from the TRT Archive

People Are Talking, 1984 - Richard Chamberlain and the Tuolumne River

Why a Watershed-Wide Approach?

We work across the greater Yosemite region because the entire Tuolumne Watershed is inextricably connected. Forest health determines water quality downstream. Flows in the lower River affect keystone species like salmon, which provide nutrients for soil that grows food in the valley, driving a thriving economy.

When floodplains are healthy, homes and communities are better protected against floods and drought. When parks provide green space and recreation opportunities, people connect more deeply to their surroundings, sparking an interest in advocating for policies that will protect these landscapes. Our communities are only as healthy as the environment they inhabit. We are working to build a collective vision that brings more balance and resilience to this remarkable watershed

Our education, advocacy, restoration, and recreation programs in three key regions of the watershed support communities, ecosystems, and economies that thrive

Greater Yosemite Region: We are working to restore meadows, forests, and landscapes that have been decimated by wildfire and are susceptible to future fire. By building resilience back into the land, we are investing in future generations’ ability to enjoy the same benefits we have: clean water, play, the wonder of walking through cathedral forests, and so much more We are also investing in the communities adjacent to the forest that rely on it for economic prosperity, jobs, and tourism

Central Valley: Our work in this region is focused on providing access and recreation opportunities to local communities, empowering youth and families, to feel connected and become stewards of the Tuolumne, and building grassroots power that drives innovative policymaking. We restore floodplains, build new parks, offer access to recreation opportunities, and tackle some of the most pressing environmental justice issues in partnership with the residents of riverside communities where we work.

Bay Area:

We advocate for policies that improve flows on the Tuolumne, which have far reaching effects on the greater Bay-Delta ecosystem These decadeslong proceedings, such as the State Water Quality Control Board’s Bay- Delta Plan, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s licensing of two key dams on the River, in addition to water use efficiency and smart water management throughout the Bay Area, affect the present and future health of the watershed. Educating Bay Area residents about their water source – the Tuolumneand our efforts to protect the River’s ecosystems while advocating for innovative water policy to support those systems are at the forefront of our work in this region

Why Advocacy Matters

California water and environmental policy is complex; competing interests, lawsuits, antiquated laws, and ingrained practices inhibit progressive water management on the Tuolumne. We’ve been working on policy issues since our inception over 40 years ago, and have no plans to stop.

Through policy proceedings and decisionmaking at the federal, state, and local level, we are working to reverse profound damage inflicted upon the Tuolumne and its watershed over the past 170 years.

Our goals are to improve habitat conditions for fish and wildlife, rehabilitate Chinook Salmon and Steelhead Trout populations that are on the brink of extinction, revive meadows and streams, restore forest health, and improve parks and park access so that many have access to the beauty and wonder of the Tuolumne River.

While in many cases, environmental and habitat conditions in the watershed can be improved through physical restoration projects, such as forest restoration, floodplain restoration, and meadow restoration, this approach alone is insufficient to fully restore the River’s health

In some cases, the federal, state, and local agencies’ management of the River must be changed, and thus the rules that guide these agencies’ management must be changed. We engage in efforts to improve their policies and rules through grassroots organizing and advocacy.

1984

Key Accomplishments 1994

Thanks to the hard work of TRT and others, the Proposed Clavey River hydroelectric project was shelved due to environmental and economic considerations

The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) and Modesto and Turlock Irrigation Districts (MID/TID) entered a Settlement Agreement with TRT and other parties to help restore the fall-run Chinook salmon population. Prior to this, TRT focused on river protection and stopping projects that were harmful to the environment After the Settlement Agreement, we began to focus on river restoration and fixing past harm, beginning a new phase in our scope of work

The Tuolumne River was designated a Wild & Scenic River by Congress. Immediately following this victory, the Turlock Irrigation District announced the Clavey River Project, a plan to build up to six dams on the Clavey River and other tributaries. 2008

TRT stopped the SFPUC proposal to build a 4th water pipeline from the Tuolumne River that would have diverted more water from the Tuolumne.

TRT convinced the SFPUC not to pursue plans to divert an additional 25M gallons of water per day from the River and focus on water efficiency instead

TRT demonstrated boatability of the River up to La Grange Dam, leading FERC to require MID/TID to apply for a hydropower license for the dam, a decision subsequently upheld by the DC Circuit Court of Appeals in 2015. This decision will help bring operations and management of the dam, built in 1893, up-to-date with current environmental laws and regulations.

1995 2006 2012 2018

As a result of TRT’s advocacy and grassroots organizing, water demand in the Bay Area decreased by 24% from 2008 levels after the SFPUC improved its water use efficiency and conservation initiatives.

And, TRT and our allies built the scientific and political case for increased water releases on the Tuolumne and other San Joaquin Valley rivers leading the SWRCB to vote 4-1 to increase mandatory flow requirements on the Tuolumne to 40% of the River’s natural flow between February and June. Currently, only 20% is required to be released on average. As of printing, we are still advocating for implementation of the State Water Board plan.

Water Policy and River Protection

Through our Let It Flow and Use It Wisely campaigns, we are focused on improving water flows, held tightly by local and State of California governmental agencies. With greater flows creating colder water, we can improve Chinook Salmon and Steelhead Trout populations and habitat conditions for other fish and wildlife in the greater Yosemite region.

Let it Flow

Relicensing of the Don Pedro and La Grange dams along with the State’s Bay Delta Water Quality Control Plan update is critical to river flow releases. These parallel processes represent a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring dam operations up to date with contemporary environmental laws and policies.

Through these regulatory proceedings we advocate for restoration of rearing and migratory habitat in the River’s floodplains and channel and improved flow releases into the lower Tuolumne River

Use it Wisely

Through our Use it Wisely campaign, we advocate for better water management policies, including increased water use efficiency, recycling, and groundwater recharge and storage.

By using water more wisely, we will increase our flexibility to let water flow in the River while maintaining a healthy economy As the population and economy of the Bay Area grow and climate change impacts weather patterns, it is more important than ever for those areas that receive Tuolumne River water to evaluate strategies that have previously received little attention. Old ways of forecasting demand are outdated.

Currently, only about 20% of the River’s natural flow, on average, is released from Don Pedro and La Grange Dams. Salmon populations will meaningfully improve only through habitat restoration coupled with increased flows Habitat restoration without improvements to flow simply won’t work - restored floodplains won’t inundate as frequently or widely as they should, water temperatures will remain too high, and predators will continue to thrive.

We continue to advocate for the complete package of both flow and “non-flow” measures as an integrated approach to restoring the River’s health.

Local water sources have not been thoroughly evaluated. Waste water remains an underutilized opportunity. We seek to ensure more accurate tools are used for future demand projections so that the SFPUC does not place undue pressure on the Tuolumne River Advance-purified recycled water could put waste water to beneficial use; groundwater recharge and conjunctive use can take advantage of extreme wet years when an abundance of water allows for storing more water in the ground to be used during dry times. These are just a few of the many solutions available to us that can propel us into a sustainable water future.

We're always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference and help us protect our precious natural resources. So please, visit our events page at tuolumne.org/events to see what's coming up and sign up for an opportunity to do some good

Another way to support our cause is to become a member of the Trust.

Membership not only supports our work financially, but also gives you access to member-only events, updates on our projects and campaigns, and the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals who share your passion for the river

Together, we can make a real difference in preserving and improving our natural spaces. Let's work together and create a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come. Join us in our mission to make a lasting impact on the environment and leave a positive mark on our local ecosystems

Become a Member

It takes a community of guardians to insure the long-term sustainability of the Tuolumne River and the greater Yosemite ecosystem. When you become a member of the Tuolumne River Trust you take action today, impact tomorrow and create a legacy for generations to come.

Headwaters League

With a gift of $35 or more annually, donors become an instant MEMBER of the Tuolumne River Trust. Membership benefits start at $10/month or $120 or more annually. Benefits you will enjoy are: exclusive SWAG, access to our Tuolumne Guardian, discounts to events, and you will be the first to hear about volunteer opportunities as well as so much more

Tuolumne Friends

Join our leadership level of donors with an annual gift of $1,000 or more Enjoy all the benefits of membership plus special event invites, personal updates from our Executive Director, an exclusive and in-depth look into the “State of TRT,” and tours out in the field Additionally, your name of choice will be recognized in our annual report.

Chinook Society

Join our Chinook Society, a circle of leadership donors giving an annual gift of $5,000 or more. Enjoy all the benefits of Friends of the Tuolumne, plus tours and adventures for you and your family and friends

Wild

and Scenic Guardians

Join our premier group of donors making an annual gift of $10,000 or more Your gift has a lasting impact on protecting and restoring the Tuolumne River and the greater Yosemite Ecosystem Wild and Scenic Guardians enjoy all the benefits of the Chinook Society, plus guided adventures for you and your family and friends.

Education and Community Organizing in the Central Valley

As we advocate for the River, community engagement is key. When riverside communities feel connected to the River, it thrives. When we educate youth and multi-generational families, they come to understand how they have the power to protect their community and its resources. When residents are provided safe access and beautiful recreational spaces such as parks and a clean river, they are able to enjoy these spaces.

There is much evidence that demonstrates the relationship between urban green spaces, parks and public health and numerous studies have shown that there is significantly less public green space in low-income and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. For example, in Modesto, CA, people living in the Eastern part of the city are expected to live 5 years less than those who live in more affluent neighborhoods.

The relationship between communities in the Central Valley and the River are complex relating to many socio-economic factors Many live alongside the Tuolumne but feel no connection to it. Learning how to swim, fish, and ride a bike are not easily accessible life skills. Enjoying the greater outdoors takes a working car, gas and time which is not always possible.

As TRT broadened its mission during the 1990s and early 2000s, moving from safeguarding just the upper stretches of the River to preserving the health of the entire River system, we recognized the complexities surrounding accessibility to the River and the great outdoors. Today, we persist in our commitment to amplify the voices and address the needs of all riverside communities, ensuring their concerns are not just heard, but integrated into our conservation efforts

Our Central Valley team has taken on these challenges to bring communities in this region together and in connection with the River. Our multifaceted education programs are building the next generation of leaders who will grow up understanding the importance of caring for their community and its natural resources.

With schools severely lacking environmental literacy, our programs go into schools to help. Using a combination of classroom education and outdoor hands-on experiential learning, youth discover new life skills, develop their own leadership style, and learn how to advocate for environmental justice issues so that they can take action in their community.

Our programming creates access and opportunities for multi-generational families to learn how to fish, canoe and where to find safe access the River We make it possible for families to enjoy their parks and learn skills such as fixing their bikes and riding them along the park paths that line the Tuolumne. We work with the West Modesto community to support planning of new parks and access that will be part of the Tuolumne River Regional Park.

By making it possible to have equitable access to the outdoors, communities have the chance to combat social isolation, maintain physical and emotional health, establish healthy habits, and participate in stewardship activities that protect and restore the environment.

The importance of connecting riverside communities to the River cannot be overstated

When we collectively come together to support and enrich whole communities, they in turn are empowered to feel connected and steward their natural resources so that generations to come will be lifted up and provided the same if not more opportunities.

Key Accomplishments

TRT Launched the Riverside Neighborhoods Program in Modesto’s Airport Neighborhood to support engagement from a broader range of stakeholders.

In partnership with local leaders, TRT helped found Charlas Communitarias and the Airport Neighborhood Collaborative to create forums for residents to discuss neighborhood issues, identify solutions, and bring those solutions to their local elected officials.

TRT and our community partners led an initiative to improve lighting in the Airport Neighborhood to both improve neighborhood safety and reduce barriers to park access, which resulted in 40 new streetlights installed in areas leading to the park.

2010 2011 2012

TRT and our community partners improved sidewalks in the Airport Neighborhood, which improves pedestrian safety and access to the Tuolumne River Regional Park.

TRT kicked-off the Adopt-Our-River program to remove litter and trash in and along the River in Modesto.

TRT launched the Safe Routes to Parks initiative to improve access to river parks in the Airport Neighborhood.

2008 2018 2019 2022

TRT further developed our park equity work through establishing a Park Youth Committee and onboarding our first cohort of high-school students and young adult mentors.

Education Programs

The Tuolumne River Adventure Club (TRAC)

“T in Tap” is TRT’s award-winning elementary school education program that utilizes handson, interactive lessons to teach 4th-7th grade students in the Bay Area where their water comes from and how to conserve it. The program fosters an ethic of stewardship in students and inspires them, along with their families and school administrators, to reduce water usage at home and at school.

Trekking the Tuolumne

That’s the Tuolumne in My Tap Park Equity Project

Our Trekking the Tuolumne program exposes youth in the Central Valley to the natural world around them through outdoor hands-on learning, field-trips in the watershed, and classroom lessons that cover key concepts such as river ecology, wildlife conservation, how local water resources are used, and challenges facing the River. These students are also exposed to careers in the outdoors and in water management, which helps develop tomorrow’s leaders.

Outdoor Equity Program

Our Outdoor Equity Program empowers multigenerational families to care and support their local environment, actively contributing to a healthier community through outdoor recreation and civic engagement. We partner with elementary school students and their families to provide access to explore the great outdoors safely and confidently, fostering a deep appreciation for nature. Activities encompass learning skills to have safe outdoor recreation (fishing, paddling, and biking), exploration (visiting California State Parks and neighborhood parks), and environmental education (studying salmon life cycles, nature journaling, and participating in bio-blitzes)

Through intentional and innovative programming, our TRAC program engages youth who are changing the way we think and talk about the outdoors and stewardship. Youth participating in our programs learn outdoor skills and build leadership skills to promote and mentor environmental stewardship within their own communities

Our Park Equity Project empowers youth and families to champion safe and accessible parks for all, promoting civic engagement and collaboration with local government. Led by a dedicated Park Youth Committee (PYC) composed of high school students and adult allies, this initiative addresses pressing park equity issues in local neighborhoods. Working hand-in-hand with communities, we tackle key concerns related to park access, such as safety, functional amenities, recreational opportunities, and accessibility Our vision is a world where all children can thrive in safe and enjoyable parks.

Youth who feel empowered and have the opportunity to obtain environmental literacy and outdoor experiential learning will become our future leaders. Through engagement in their outdoor community, new recreational life-skills and using their voice to advocate for environmental inequity and injustice, they are some of the most powerful voices leading efforts to protect and restore special places like the Tuolumne Watershed.

Have you thought about what legacy you will leave?

Considering the Tuolumne River Trust in your estate planning can have a lasting impact on the Tuolumne River and the greater Yosemite ecosystem.

Your generosity and foresight will help us continue our efforts to protect and restore the Tuolumne River and its surrounding lands

At the Tuolumne River Trust, we are committed to protecting the greater Yosemite ecosystem and beyond. During the tax season, it is an ideal time to assess your estate. Please consider making a legacy gift to the Tuolumne River Trust.

“The Tuolumne River is my home water and I have fished over many years. The Trust works hard to protect wild fish and fight for clean, abundant water. I know my legacy gift will help restore and preserve the Tuolumne for future generations "

-Cindy Charles

We understand that deciding on a legacy gift is a personal decision, and we are here to help you explore the options that best fit your charitable goals and financial needs. Your gift will not only make a difference for the Tuolumne River, but it will also leave a lasting legacy for you and your loved ones

We are deeply grateful for your support and commitment to protecting this special place. Together, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and abundance of this incredible natural resource.

Pioneering Ecosystem Restoration

At the forefront of our mission is the rejuvenation of rivers, forests, and meadows, paving the way for a greener future. We believe in a comprehensive approach that revitalizes natural habitats and strengthens the bonds within our communities.

In an era of increasing ecological challenges, progressive restoration initiatives are more important than ever. Through numerous collaboratives, our mission is to restore habitats, improve forest health, and build new parks and trails, all while fostering a connection between communities and the natural world. With impactful projects and collaborations like the Tuolumne River Parkway, Clavey River Ecosystem Project, and Yosemite Stanislaus Solutions, we aim to mend the damage caused by past human activities and ensure ecosystems thrive

We focus on restoring floodplains, forests, meadows, and streams, and leveraging nature's resilience When necessary, we use human intervention to jump-start ecological processes Our goal is to nourish landscapes that also provide community benefits, such as parks and recreational facilities

Floodplain restoration projects along the lower Tuolumne River, including the Tuolumne River Parkway, Big Bend Project, and Dos Rios Ranch, not only create vital habitats for baby salmon but also establish river parks for local communities to enjoy. Our accomplishments in this area have been important and substantial, including the removal of the deadly Dennett Dam and the acquisition of over 2,000 acres of riverside property for conservation.

PLANT A LEGACY, PROTECT THE FUTURE DEDICATE A TREE OR GROVE TODAY!

MAKE A UNIQUE GIFT, ONE THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME (OR GENERATIONS TO COME)

$50,000+ Restore forests affected by catastrophic wildfire

$25,000+ Restore a young grove in the greater Yosemite Ecosystem

$1,000+ Plant a single tree in the Tuolumne Watershed

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE

Your donation will help permanently protect and restore the Tuolumne River and the greater Yosemite ecosystem Dedicate your gift in memorium, in celebration or as a special tribute Each gift will be accompanied with a personalized card or email to the recipient

Whether you ' re looking to memorialize a loved one, celebrate a milestone, or simply make a positive impact on the environment, dedicating a tree or grove is a wonderful way to do it Your gift will help to preserve this beautiful and important ecosystem, and will serve as a lasting tribute to the person or occasion you choose to honor

Floodplains and Parks

We believe in the importance of building parks that have a positive impact on both humans and wildlife. Through our floodplain restoration work, we are creating thriving habitats for diverse species. By preserving and revitalizing floodplains, we promote balance between human recreation and the preservation of natural ecosystems, ensuring the well-being and coexistence of both people and wildlife for generations to come.

Floodplains along the lower Tuolumne River are critical rearing habitat for baby salmon before they make their journey out to the sea. However, due to water demands from local and state governments, many salmon are cut off from the river channel by dams, levees, and lower flow releases. As part of our effort to restore the Tuolumne, we are removing levees and rebuilding the floodplains, that inundate more frequently Floodplains are not only habitats to a variety of species, but they are also great places to build adjacent riverside parks Coupling habitat restoration and park creation is one innovation that allows us to better mimic natural cycles and provide safe and accessible access to the River.

The Carpenter Road portion of the TRRP is currently a 75-acre vacant field. We are bringing this floodplain back to health by improving the surrounding riparian forest, purifying stormwater runoff, and reducing the amount of pollution that enters the Tuolumne. This project will reduce the risk of flooding for adjacent neighborhoods, most of which are underserved communities of color. In addition to the ecological benefits of floodplain restoration, we are constructing recreational amenities such as trails, river overlooks, and fishing platforms that residents can enjoy.

In the town of La Grange, we are spearheading efforts to build a new 200acre park and habitat restoration project. Through this project, we are improving floodplain and spawning habitat for salmon and Steelhead and riparian forests for wildlife. We are building new recreational facilities at a location that is currently a vacant field, revitalizing the region with better access to recreation and open space. This new park will anchor the western end of the Tuolumne River Parkway and create a regional amenity where communities can enjoy the Tuolumne River

Tuolumne River Regional Park (TRRP) Carpenter Road Project

La Grange Floodplain Restoration

Key Accomplishments

As a member of the Tuolumne River Coalition, TRT led the group’s efforts to create a vision for the lower Tuolumne River, which envisioned a mosaic of 20 habitat restoration and park projects along the 52mile stretch of river from La Grange to the San Joaquin River. This document has been a blueprint for our and others’ efforts for the past 16 years and has led to new parks in Waterford, Ceres, and Modesto. To date, 14 projects have been completed, 3 are inprogress, and 3 remain to be completed.

TRT led efforts to acquire and restore floodplain and riparian habitat at the 240-acre Big Bend Project

TRT led a partnership to acquire the Dos Rios Ranch, 1,600 acres of floodplain at the confluence of the Tuolumne and San Joaquin Rivers.

Working in partnership with the City of Modesto, TRT removed the deadly Dennett Dam from the Tuolumne River, improving habitat, recreation, and aesthetics of the site

2005 2006 2012 2018 2022

Dos Rios Ranch in the San Joaquin Valley is set to become California's first new state park in 13 years.

San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge

Forests and Meadows

Forests are more connected to our water systems than they may seem. They are vital for ensuring healthy rivers and wildlife habitats.

Forests affect the water cycle by slowing snowmelt, evaporation, and runoff. Layers of the forest canopy, branches, and roots can even store and release water vapor, which contributes to rainfall. And of course, forests are the earth’s best tool for capturing and sequestering carbon, so long as they are healthy.

Found among the extensive mixed conifer forests of the upper watershed, meadows serve as natural sponges, collecting and filtering rainfall and snowmelt and releasing it slowly into streams and rivers Meadows are also an incredibly important habitat for many species found in the greater Yosemite region. When forests and meadows are healthy, the entire landscape is more resilient to the changing climate.

TRT is at the forefront of ensuring that the greater Yosemite region has a strong and resilient ecosystem through restoring habitat conditions for wildlife, resilient forests which can again sequester carbon, rather than emit it through high intensity fires, and designing restoration treatments on meadows in the Rim Fire footprint.

Our current restoration efforts focus on two fronts: mega-fire recovery and mega-fire prevention. Our work isn’t exclusively designed to combat mega-fires, but rather, more sustainably restore ecosystems. Post mega-fire ecosystems are out of balance, with thousands of acres of burn scar preventing wildlife migration, natural regeneration, and ecosystem function. Our work restores this burn scar through strategic reforestation and forest health treatments in partnership with the Yosemite Stanislaus Solutions (YSS) collaborative, Tuolumne County, and the U S Forest Service As of this publication going to print, we have planted over 1 million trees in our reforestation and restoration efforts

Key Accomplishments

TRT leads the Clavey collaborative in developing the Clavey River Action Plan, a list of priority projects to pursue in the watershed.

2014

TRT completes plans for restoration of four meadows in the Clavey Watershed (Wolfin, Wolfin North, Lower Fahey, and 2N55)

2016-2020

TRT completes restoration of 24 meadows and 10 springs across 160 acres in the Rim Fire footprint on behalf of the YSS collaborative.

TRT completes our first forest restoration project on 1,000 acres

2010 2019 2023

TRT plants its 1 millionth tree in the Rim Fire burn scar.

Healthy Forests Initiative

Building and restoring forests focused on resilience is a sustainable path toward fire reduction ensuring the health of the Tuolumne River and greater Yosemite watersheds.

In collaboration with the YSS Collaborative we are accelerating the pace and scale of restoration work while increasing funding that supports restoration across landscapes and watershed boundaries.

There is great urgency to restore forest health, as demonstrated by the many large- scale fires throughout California. Through our collaboration with the highly- recognized YSS Collaborative, we are addressing and reducing the hurdles that slow project implementation.

Connecting key funders and shepherding project proposals, TRT is the on-the ground project manager. Working in partnership with the Stanislaus National Forest we have developed a framework that accelerates the planning process for large landscape areas and shortens the timeline for completing environmentally compliant projects. Over the last several years, thousands of acres of Stanislaus National Forest land has been treated, with thousands of acres of additional fuel reduction, forest and meadow health, and restoration work

BEAVER

Adopt the super hero fighting climate change

Did you know that these furr are responsible for some of important ecological benefit ecosystems? The North Ame plays a vital role in creating maintaining wetland habitat a wide range of other specie "adopting" a beaver, donors support efforts to improve a beaver habitat along the Tuo

BLACK BEAR

Adopt the beloved American Black Bear

The American Black Bear is a versatile and adaptable omnivore native to North America, thriving in various habitats such as forests, swamps, and mountainous regions. As the most common bear species in the continent, the American Black Bear plays a crucial role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem within the Tuolumne River watershed. By supporting black bear conservation efforts, donors can help protect this majestic species.

C H I N O O K S A L M O N

Adopt the Tuolumne's vital species

The Chinook Salmon is a remarkable keystone species that thrives in the Tuolumne River watershed, playing a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem These awe-inspiring fish embark on an extraordinary journey from the ocean to their spawning grounds, traveling great distances to ensure the survival of their species By supporting Chinook Salmon conservation efforts, donors can help protect these magnificent fish, safeguard their habitats, and contribute to a thriving, balanced ecosystem that benefits all inhabitants of the region

y Owl

ct pan, is a mne River Grey Owl to thrive ng to Grey Owl's e e bird, and the egion.