Tucked away in northern Arizona, the upper section of the Verde River, along with its critical tributaries Granite and Sycamore creeks, are some of the most ecologically healthy and economically important free-flowing rivers remaining in Arizona. Due to its remarkable ecological and cultural importance, the Upper Verde River area is being proposed for a federal Wild & Scenic River designation. This designation will provide resources for management and restoration, protect clean water supplies, and maintain the river's ecosystem as it is for future generations.

In this Speaker Series presentation, join Rachel Ellis, Associate Director of the Southwest River Protection Program at American Rivers, to learn about her incredible work protecting wild rivers and the campaign to designate the Upper Verde as a Wild and Scenic River.

Doors open at 6:30pm.
*The event is free, but space is limited, and registration is required to attend. The talk will be live-streamed on our YouTube channel for those unable to attend in person.

Rachel Ellis is the Associate Director of the Southwest River Protection Program at American Rivers. She works throughout the Colorado and Río Grande basins and Southwestern states on developing river protection projects, Wild and Scenic campaigns, and grassroots partnerships. As a lifelong resident of the region and with multi-generational roots in New Mexico, Rachel has deep ties and commitment to the Southwest. She is inspired by place-based and community-based river and water advocacy because it is a powerful avenue for actualizing social and environmental justice, particularly in the era of climate change. Prior to American Rivers, Rachel did research, advocacy, and community organizing for Black Mesa Trust and various partners working to protect the Little Colorado River watershed. Before that, Rachel spent much of her career as a back and front country educator. She remains passionate about education and youth leadership.