Keeping the Tuolumne River
Wild and Thriving

Join us in safeguarding the Greater Yosemite Region for future generations.

The Tuolumne River is more than just a body of water—it's a vital source of life, adventure, and inspiration. It nourishes our communities, supports diverse ecosystems, and provides clean water to millions. At Tuolumne River Trust, we're dedicated to protecting and restoring this natural treasure, but we can't do it alone.

  • Why the Tuolumne River Matters

  • The Tuolumne River is an essential water source, supplying drinking water to over 2.7 million people in the Bay Area.

  • Water from the Tuolumne irrigates over 200,000 acres of farmland in the Central Valley - growing our nation's food.

  • The Tuolumne River watershed is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 600 species of plants and wildlife.

  • The Tuolumne River is a recreational haven, offering hiking, fishing, rafting, and countless outdoor activities.

  • The Tuolumne River holds historical importance for Indigenous communities and early settlers, reflecting its cultural significance.

Current Challenges:

Environmental Threats: Pollution, habitat destruction, wildfires, and climate change are damaging the river's health. Contaminants degrade water quality, while rising temperatures and altered flows stress ecosystems. Frequent wildfires devastate surrounding forests, causing erosion and ash that harm aquatic life.

Threat to Salmon Populations: Chinook salmon—a keystone species—are in sharp decline due to reduced flows, migration barriers, habitat loss, and wildfire impacts. Their loss affects the entire ecosystem and the communities that rely on them.

Policy Risks: Weak regulations lead to overuse and mismanagement of water resources. Without strong policies, unsustainable diversions and development jeopardize the river's balance and future water availability.

Community Disconnection: Low public awareness diminishes support for conservation efforts. Many are unaware of the river's importance or the challenges it faces, leading to insufficient community action.

OUR WORK

At Tuolumne River Trust, we take a holistic approach to safeguarding the entire watershed, weaving together advocacy, restoration, and education into a unified force for change.

Dive in.

DON’T WATCH FROM THE SHORE,

For over 40 years, we have continued this decades-long legacy of restoring and protecting this irreplaceable watershed that spans from the Sierra Nevada Mountains through the Central Valley to the San Francisco Bay. 

ABOUT US

Your Support in Action — Check out our latest Impact Report