Giving Back – Spring Rivers Foundation
ENJOY Q&A, with Allison Breedveld, Education Program Director…
What is the primary mission of Spring Rivers Foundation?
The two-fold mission is to protect the health and diversity of our region’s unique spring-fed waterways, and to provide outdoor learning opportunities for our communities’ schools. The foundation works with local landowners, stakeholders and regulatory agencies to encourage habitat protection, restoration, recovery and stewardship of the aquatic species native to and only found in the Intermountain Area of Shasta County. Spring Rivers Foundation also works with elementary schools to provide student field trips with fun, hands-on learning that meet state science standards.
How has the foundation’s vision impacted environmental conservation in Shasta County?
Maria Ellis and Jeff Cook founded Spring Rivers Foundation in 2004 to provide stewardship for the region’s native species and habitat and inspire a real and lasting bond between people and the outdoors. Through restoration and research, projects have created and protected habitat essential for the critically endangered Shasta crayfish, which is a species only found in the Intermountain area of Shasta County. The foundation’s work also helps protect other native species and habitat found in the waters of the Intermountain area, one of the largest spring systems in the United States.
How do you involve the local community in conservation efforts?
Spring Rivers Foundation has sponsored internships and worked with local high schools to get students directly involved with conservation efforts. We believe that getting students outdoors and providing hands-on learning experiences helps to ensure greater success of local long-term conservation efforts.
What educational programs does Spring Rivers Foundation offer to foster environmental awareness?Spring Rivers Foundation’s staff, educators and volunteer docents provide outdoor, science-based learning for more than 1,000 students and community members annually through field trips, hikes and events. These experiences connect participants with nature, foster community and encourage physical activity. We also offer educational activities for all ages at outdoor learning days and community events, focusing on connecting people with their local environment through hands-on education.
How does the foundation secure funding for its projects?
Federal, state and local grants and private donations.
Are there opportunities for individuals or organizations to volunteer or contribute to the foundation’s initiatives? The foundation is always seeking volunteer docents to lead educational stations, hikes, and activities at our field trips and events. No specific skills are needed—new docents receive all necessary training, materials, and information. A clean background check and enthusiasm for educating local youth are required. Spring Rivers Foundation needs donations and program sponsorships to continue our outdoor education work. Contact [email protected] or our Facebook page to learn more.
What are the foundation’s priorities for the next five to 10 years in Shasta County?
Our most urgent conservation goal is to establish a safe and protected refuge population of Shasta crayfish that will ensure the future survival of the species. The foundation strives to continue to offer a variety of outdoor education activities for local youth and other community members.
Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re particularly excited about?
I am looking forward to our 2025 education activities! The Outdoor Education Team continues to develop integrated educational programs and locations to connect students and adults with the natural world, enhance the fun and relevance of learning and increase environmental awareness.
Spring Rivers Foundation • (530) 335-5446 • springrivers.org
[email protected]
