Impact Report 2023
Our Organization
Rooted deeply in our over 40 years of history, the Tuolumne River Trust has been a symbol of a profound connection between nature, community, and commitment. Our journey started from a coalition of rafters, kayakers, and advocates and is a testament to the power of collaboration. Today, as we look back at our triumphs, it's our rich legacy that shapes our present, propelling us toward another 40 years of environmental stewardship.
Our team, a diverse mosaic of advocates, educators, conservationists, community leaders, and so much more, reflects the essence of the river we cherish – dynamic, resilient, and deeply interconnected.
Drawing strength from our rich legacy, each member contributes unique expertise, guiding our efforts to preserve the Tuolumne for generations to come.
Our Team
100%
BOARD PARTICIPATION
66%
FEMALE STAFF
100%
OF STAFF BELIEVE THEIR WORK HAS AN IMPACT
Hear from our Executive Director, Patrick Koepele
As we pause to reflect on another impactful year at the Tuolumne River Trust, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride.
Guided by our longstanding mission, vision, and values, our 2023 journey is a testament to the power of collective effort, the endurance of our cause, and the unwavering spirit of those who believe in the importance of protecting and restoring our ecosystems.
Our Volunteers
Heroes don't always wear capes; sometimes they wear mud-streaked boots. Our volunteers, new faces, and seasoned hands alike, have tirelessly worked towards bettering forest health, rejuvenating habitats, and weaving our communities even closer.
Habitat Restoration Program:
48
Volunteer Events
505
Total Volunteers
182
First-time Participants
3,442
Total Volunteer Hours
Forest Health
Our Forest Health program is deeply committed to bolstering the resilience of the Greater Yosemite Region’s Forests. In 2023, we made considerable strides in achieving our mission. A total of 4,000 acres underwent mechanical fuel reduction, while we successfully planted 420,000 seedlings across 2,600 reforested acres. Our team grew stronger with the addition of four new staff members, and we extended our survey reach to 10,000 acres. We also procured an additional $7 million, which will facilitate the reforestation of an extra 3,000 acres.
Habitat Restoration
This year, we made remarkable progress in our Habitat Restoration program. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of 505 volunteers, we managed to host 48 events, maintain over 25 miles of trail, and remove 500 pounds of trash. Our most significant achievement was the planting of 4,128 trees, contributing immensely to the diversity and richness of our forest ecosystem. As we look to the future, we remain committed to preserving and enhancing our beautiful, natural spaces.
Education and Community Engagement
We worked with 18 high school students from Modesto on our Park Equity initiative and engaged 198 participants in our Tuolumne River Adventure Club events. A highlight was the launch of our ACT Modesto Park Equity StoryMap and bilingual Park Survey, enhancing the reach and accessibility of our work.
Among our participants, many had their first experience with outdoor activities, such as canoeing, camping, and fishing. These memorable experiences foster deeper connections with nature and emphasize the importance of our collective responsibility to preserve it.
Advocacy
Since 1981, the Advocacy Program at the Tuolumne River Trust has protected the Tuolumne River, aiming to reverse damage and maintain ecological balance. In 2023, we intensified our campaign via key policy proceedings: the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's dam licensing and the State Water Board's Bay Delta Plan update. In April, the US Supreme Court rejected challenges against the State Water Board's authority, strengthening our cause.
Partnering with organizations like the California Sportfishing Protection Alliance, we championed higher river flows. We also sought to commit our water rights to instream flow and faced challenges resolutely, prioritizing the river's long-term health.
Embracing diversity, inclusivity, and indigenous stewardship, we are committed to creating a thriving river ecosystem for all.
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During my childhood, I was never able to experience the joy of outdoor activities such as camping, canoeing, or simply appreciating the beauty of nature. It took me years to learn these skills and enjoy the outdoors. Even to this day, I am still learning. This is why the Tuolumne River Trust is crucial in educating, advocating, and restoring the Tuolumne; they help create opportunities for people to recreate outdoors.
Jose Borroel
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With your support, TRT educates hundreds more students, just like my son, and help them see the value of being leaders in their community and taking action to protect and restore their neighborhoods.
Shanyn Avila
Looking Forward: Our Vision for the Greater Yosemite Region.
As we look to the future, one thing is certain: We will continue working to ensure that the Tuolumne River watershed is protected, restored, and resilient for generations to come.