The Freshwater Trust

The Freshwater Trust is focused on using insight to solve problems at the intersection of water and the economy. By leveraging analytics, science, policy reform, and incentive-based solutions, we’re working to build and apply data-driven conservation solutions that scale. What we do: Using science, technology, policy and finance, we build and manage solutions that improve water quality and quantity. With data and 21st century tools and technologies, we enable smarter watershed management to happen faster and at a greater scale. We also employ our solutions on the ground, such as riparian restoration and groundwater replenishment, for the benefit of both watersheds and the plants, animals and people that rely on them. Why we do what we do: Rivers are the backbone of our country. Yet decades of treating a finite resource as infinite has had severe consequences. More than 2.3 billion people worldwide live in river basins that are under stress, and half the rivers and streams in America are unhealthy and not functioning as they should. There are deadly algae blooms and lead-contaminated drinking water, taps running dry, and agricultural industries and wildlife at risk. This is not sustainable. We must restore our waterways faster than we degrade them. How we do what we do: We’re pioneers of a new approach. “Quantified Conservation” is about using data and technology to ensure every restoration action taken translates to a positive outcome. First, we identify and prioritize restoration opportunities to maximize benefits for a watershed. Then, we work with willing landowners to restore habitat in key places, to adapt practices, or to keep more water in rivers and streams that need it. Along the way, we track how every action we take is making a difference for our freshwater resources, our wildlife and our communities.