Colorado River Alliance

Secure the vitality of the Texas Colorado River through education and advocacy for all generations

We are advocates for the Texas Colorado River, believing that a healthy, flowing river is imperative to the long-term well-being of the communities through which it runs. To that end, we dedicate resources, time, and energy to educating others on what the River offers and what we are obligated to do in return. We are facilitators of dialogue and will work with all organizations and interests to constructively address issues that support the River’s short- and long-term health.

The Colorado River Alliance (CRA), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Austin, is the only nonprofit dedicated solely to the conservation and protection of the Texas Colorado River. The Colorado River Alliance has been increasing community awareness of the Colorado River’s environmental and economic importance since 1994. We provide, conduct and support environmental science and outdoor education programs for youth, river cleanups, and other river-centered projects in efforts to bring awareness to the Colorado River.

Environmental Education Programming is run year-round. We host Austin's Family Water Festival each April, and co-host the Annual Lake Travis Underwater and Shoreline Cleanup every September.

We proudly support flexible volunteer opportunities and highly organized professional development internships that are focused on environmental education for Grades 3-5 students, and Grade 7 students. We teach about the Water Cycle, water conservation, the Texas Colorado River, and watersheds during our field trips. Interns commit an average of 15-20 hours per week during the spring, summer, and fall semesters. Volunteer environmental educators can undertake flexible time commitments that fit their schedules. Interested persons should contact Geoff Hensgen (Geoff@coloradoriver.org) for more information.