Protecting & restoring the rivers & fisheries of Idaho since 1990.

Idaho is home to 107,651 miles of river, and Idaho Rivers United is the only conservation organization in our state focused exclusively on the health and protections of our incredible river resources.

In addition to stressors such as climate change, loss of biodiversity, poorly managed and inefficient water systems, water quality, and declining aquifers, Idaho’s fast-growing population and increased demand for multi-use landscapes and natural resources is amplifying stressors on our rivers. We’re keeping Idaho's rivers healthy and flourishing for generations to come.

If you love a river, join IRU today.

What We Do

  • PROTECT & RESTORE RIVERS

    Our rivers are one of Idaho’s most cherished assets and should remain protected, healthy, and wild. We work to increase river protections throughout the state through increasing Idaho’s Wild & Scenic River designations, water policy, education, and advocacy.

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    WILD FISH PROTECTION & RECOVERY

    For over three decades, IRU has been the leading voice for Idaho’s wild fish, with most of our efforts focused on our declining salmon and steelhead. We work to protect and recover Idaho’s wild fish through advocacy, policy work, engaging with our leaders, community education, and partnerships.

  • MINING REFORM

    IRU is committed to mining reform and minimizing the negative impacts of irresponsible mining from the headwaters to the mouth of Idaho’s rivers. we will continue to monitor, provide comment, and object, as necessary, to proposed mining operations within Idaho.

  • ENSURE CLEAN WATER ACCESS

    We’re committed to protecting the health of our waterways state-wide. Clean water is vital to the health and vitality of our communities and ecosystems. We work to improve the health of our rivers through urban river initiatives, minimizing the impacts of development on rivers, and community engagement. We also do this through hydropower reform work.

  • HYDROPOWER REFORM

    Idaho Rivers United plays a central role in the Hydropower Reform Coalition, an organization that protects, enhances, and restores America’s rivers, watersheds, and communities affected by hydropower operations. The Coalition is comprised of 160 conservation organizations throughout the United States, and engages in policy, standards, licensing, and projects surrounding hydropower issues.

  • RIVER STEWARDSHIP & ADVOCACY

    Idaho Rivers United has grown into a statewide organization, yet our roots are in grassroots advocacy. We understand the power of your voice. Whether the rivers you love are in your backyard or are your favorite place to play, you can have a say in how they are managed and protected. Speaking up for our waterways, rivers, and wild fish makes a difference. Your voice can influence policy, waterway protections, and elected officials.

Apply to be an IRU River Ambassador!

DEADLINE TO APPLY IS MARCH 31st, 2024. Please email any questions to tess@idahorivers.org

Enter IRU’s 2024 Media Contest!

Show us what “the future of Idaho rivers” means to you through your lens. The deadline to submit your photos and short video clips is September 30th, 2024.

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Our Organization

Learn more about who we are, our history, and how we accomplish our work.