March 4, 2021

Friends of the Verde River is pleased to present the virtual Verde River Runoff, March 20-30. In celebration of Friends of the Verde Rivers’ 10^th birthday, the event will last for 10-days and cost only $10 to register.

Ten years ago, a volunteer group of river stewards, who had been focused on restoring the habitat along the Verde River Greenway since 2007, was successfully established as a 501(c)3 and became independent of the Arizona State Parks Foundation. Over the last decade, Friends has grown substantially to a dedicated staff of 10, a volunteer core of 300, and an expert board of nine who strategically work not only to restore habitat, but also to sustain river flows, and build supportive communities.

Friends also merged with three local partner organizations along the way: the Verde River Basin Partnership, the Verde River Valley Nature Organization (VRVNO) and One for the Verde.

Since the Verde River Runoff is virtual in 2021 due to COVID-19, registrants can paddle on any body of water, for any duration, for any distance, to honor the Verde River.

The Verde River is an oasis of life and livelihoods, providing crucial habitat for fish and wildlife, fresh water for local agriculture production, recreational opportunities for locals and visitors, and clean drinking water to over 2-million people in the greater Phoenix area. If you live in Arizona, chances are that this beautiful and powerful river impacts your life in a significant way.

By registering for the Verde River Runoff, your $10 registration fee will go towards crucial water conservation projects, boots-on-the-ground restorative projects, and other community events aimed towards education, engagement, and inspiration.

Register today at verderiver.org/verde-river-runoff.

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