Rivers Offer Relief from Daily Stress, Boost Mental Health

Rivers Offer Relief from Daily Stress,

Boost Mental Health

Photo provided by Colorado Canyons Association

As summer winds down and school starts back up, it’s a time of change for many. “I love the fall,” notes Cindy Hester, a teacher at Sopris Elementary School. “But kids can find the transition back to school stressful, and this often impacts the entire family.”

The good news is that spending time in blue space is a natural remedy for stress and anxiety, and our partnerships with community groups in the Four Corners region are showing benefits. Research shows that spending time near streams, rivers and lakes can reduce restlessness, increase vitamin D levels and improve overall well-being.

“Being on the river helps clear my mind like nothing else,” said Jaime Fiske, owner of SUP Marble and a Carbondale resident who regularly paddleboards on the Roaring Fork River. “It’s my go-to stress reliever”.

Research proves it. “Being near, water can be one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety in children. The sight and sound of water triggers a calm and meditative state, helping children to feel more relaxed, centered, and even happier,” explains Dr. Nichols, whose research explores the neurological and psychological benefits of water environments.

That’s why access to rivers is so important. The gentle sounds of flowing rivers, coupled with the natural beauty of areas along the water, create an ideal environment for relaxation and reflection.

Working to enhance water access

Yet, as important as access to rivers is, many communities don’t have safe, welcoming or convenient ways to experience it. That’s starting to change as groups like the Colorado Canyons Association in Grand Junction, Colorado, provide low-cost or free rafting trips to teach kids ages 10 to 20 about freshwater ecology and water in the West. Along the way, kids get the chance to release stress and build confidence in the outdoors.

The Association’s executive director Chris Herrman notes the transformative effect these experiences have. “We see kids arrive stressed and glued to their phones,” Chris said. “By the end of the trip, they’re more relaxed, enjoy more engaging conversations with each other and have a new appreciation for rivers. It’s not just a one-time thing”—it continues off the river, too”.

Jaime agrees. “Rivers don’t play favorites. Whether you are an angler, paddler or just love to watch the sunset over your favorite lake just being near blue spaces benefits your mental health.” 

We hope this month you can take peaceful strolls along your local blue spaces, enjoying the sights and sounds of water in motion. From the headwaters to the desert, rivers and streams are an excellent way to celebrate nature and take care of yourself, too.

Dive into Other Blogs

Rivers Offer Relief from Daily Stress, Boost Mental Health

Boost Mental HealthPhoto provided by Colorado Canyons AssociationAs summer winds down and school starts back up, it’s a time of change for many. “I love the fall,” notes Cindy Hester, a teacher at Sopris Elementary School. “But kids can find the transition back to...

Local Communities are Taking Action

$138K Boost for Colorado River TributariesPhoto by Friends of the Verde RiverAs wildfire season expands across the Southwest, our rivers and their tributaries face a growing challenge. With rising temperatures and extreme weather, there's no better time than now to...

White Fluff, River Health and Wildlife 

You decide to go for a walk and step outside. You see an abundance of white fluff floating around, gathering in piles on the ground or coating your backyard. Is this a good sign? Absolutely! What you are witnessing are cottonwood seeds. While they might be a bit...

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Join our newsletter so you don’t miss out on newly published articles about your streams and rivers and how you can help.

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You have the power to make a difference for your rivers and the health of your community.

Local Communities are Taking Action

Local Communities are Taking Action

$138K Boost for Colorado River Tributaries

Photo by Friends of the Verde River

As wildfire season expands across the Southwest, our rivers and their tributaries face a growing challenge. With rising temperatures and extreme weather, there’s no better time than now to take action.

Standing on the banks of the Escalante or Verde River, you would likely see invasive trees and shrubs choking the shoreline, their thirsty roots sucking precious water. You’d feel the heat of the sun and recognize that these non-native species increase the risk of out-of-control wildfires. But look closer and you’ll also see hope—in the form of dedicated communities ready to make a difference.

That’s why we are pleased to award $138,300 in funding to two local community organizations for their efforts to protect these vital rivers. Thanks to our growing group of supporters, we’re partnering with Friends of the Verde River in Arizona and the Grand Staircase Escalante Partners in Utah to restore 3,400 acres of land along these rivers and their tributaries.

The consequences of inaction paint a stark picture: rivers choked with invasives are unable to support diverse wildlife, like butterflies, eagles, trout and elk. Fire risk increases and there’s less clean water for the region’s health and well-being.

These organizations, along with community members and the Southwest Conservation Corps of Colorado, will carefully remove invasive, water-guzzling plants like tamarisk, Russian olive and Arundo. With each plant removed, native species like cottonwood and willows get a fighting chance, and the risk of uncontrollable wildfires diminishes. It’s a labor of love that protects not just the rivers, but the communities that depend on them.

Photos by Friends of the Verde River and Grand Staircase Escalante Partners

“Removing invasive plants is a bit like a chess game,” said Jackie Grant, the Partners’ executive director. “It teaches patience and is a lesson in strategy. You learn patience because the long-term results are worth the wait. Strategy comes into play when determining where your efforts will have the biggest impact. Plus, it feels good to know that you are not only improving water quality directly where you are treating invasives but downstream as well.”

This year, the Partners are tackling Harris Wash, a critical tributary to the Escalante, and a popular overnight hike past sheer cliffs and small overhangs. With both cattle and people moving through the wash, it is imperative that invasive plants and their seeds are not dispersed by foot and hoof traffic. Our grant will help eradicate these plants and remove the threat of their seeds being distributed throughout the watershed. Similar tales of restoration will play out along the Verde River.

So far, Forever Our Rivers has distributed grants to restore 13,000 acres of wildlife habitat along rivers that flow into the Colorado. These efforts are made possible through the generosity of people like you. Plus, our commitment doesn’t end when the last invasive plant is removed. We will return to the site time and again to ensure that the project was effective and that every dollar invested translates into real, lasting benefits.

Looking ahead, we plan to give out three times as many grants as we have before. This is a big goal, but it’s important because our rivers face so many challenges. With the support of people like you, it’s within reach. We’re not just helping the rivers, we’re creating a better future for communities in the Southwest. Together, let’s write a new chapter for rivers—one full of water, life and hope.

Dive into Other Blogs

Rivers Offer Relief from Daily Stress, Boost Mental Health

Boost Mental HealthPhoto provided by Colorado Canyons AssociationAs summer winds down and school starts back up, it’s a time of change for many. “I love the fall,” notes Cindy Hester, a teacher at Sopris Elementary School. “But kids can find the transition back to...

Local Communities are Taking Action

$138K Boost for Colorado River TributariesPhoto by Friends of the Verde RiverAs wildfire season expands across the Southwest, our rivers and their tributaries face a growing challenge. With rising temperatures and extreme weather, there's no better time than now to...

White Fluff, River Health and Wildlife 

You decide to go for a walk and step outside. You see an abundance of white fluff floating around, gathering in piles on the ground or coating your backyard. Is this a good sign? Absolutely! What you are witnessing are cottonwood seeds. While they might be a bit...

Stay Updated

Join our newsletter so you don’t miss out on newly published articles about your streams and rivers and how you can help.

Take Action

You have the power to make a difference for your rivers and the health of your community.

White Fluff, River Health and Wildlife 

You decide to go for a walk and step outside. You see an abundance of white fluff floating around, gathering in piles on the ground or coating your backyard. Is this a good sign? Absolutely! What you are witnessing are cottonwood seeds. While they might be a bit messy, they are a welcomed sight, indicating there is a mature cottonwood tree nearby.

Cottonwoods release their seeds during spring and early summer, perfectly timed with the high runoff from melting snow and seasonal rains. This floodwater disperses the seeds downstream across riparian areas—from Colorado’s headwaters to the Arizona desert. The nutrient-rich, damp silt deposits create ideal germination conditions, allowing the saplings to thrive in riverbank soil. Every year, cottonwoods depend on abundant clean water to propagate and survive.

Benefits of Cottonwoods

Once established, cottonwood roots filter contaminates and fortify riverbanks, slowing erosion and extensive flood damage. Their large canopies and dense foliage provide cool, shady spots for willows, which in turn provide food and breeding grounds for a variety of wildlife, including dragonflies, frogs, cutthroat trout and eagles.

Cottonwoods also serve as a beacon of hope, indicating the presence of water. Small flowers, called catkins, produced by the trees in early spring, have medicinal uses and can be chewed for toothaches or used to treat skin abrasions. As you spend time on the river near you, know that by supporting the conservation of these magnificent trees you are also helping ensure healthy rivers—for people and wildlife.

We All Take from the River

Hey, fellow adventurers of the tabletop realm! Today, we embark on a journey down the winding paths of environmental stewardship and strategic gameplay with the new board game, “We All Take from the River” by Ben Hammer.

This game invites players to step into the shoes of different communities, each with their own visions for the future. As you navigate the twists and turns of the river, you must gather resources, adapt to changing weather conditions and balance your goals with your neighbors’. You will encounter challenges and opportunities that mirror the complexities of real-world issues, from forestry management to wetlands conservation. “We All Take from the River” offers a truly immersive experience that educates, entertains and empowers players to make a difference.

We’re really excited that someone is taking the time to recognize deep-rooted issues with our rivers these days and making people aware that every decision can have pros and cons. We’d like you to get to know the game creator, Ben, and his motivation for changing the world, one game at a time.

Welcome, Ben! Thank you for talking to us about your exciting board game project, “We All Take from the River.” Let’s dive right in! First of all, congratulations! Can you tell us a bit more about what inspired you to develop “We All Take from the River”?

Ben: Thank you! It’s been really wonderful to see so much interest in this passion project of mine.

I was first inspired to make a game that mimicked policy and community decision-making that happens in real life. Basically, I wanted a game where players weren’t necessarily on the same team or opposing teams but instead had a chance to decide their relationships for themselves. They would have their own goals, which might overlap or might not, and would have to work out for themselves how to manage a shared space.

Life along a river immediately stood out to me as a perfect setting for such a game because the impact of the actions of one individual or group is so clear. If I pollute upstream from where you live, you have to reckon with the direct consequences of my actions, not me. So players are forced into conversations about land management, water use, conservation and all kinds of other interesting topics.

The game seems to offer a unique blend of environmental education and strategic gameplay. Can you explain this a little more, specifically some interesting things people can learn about their rivers?

Ben: Absolutely. The most important part of designing the river environment of “We All Take from the River” was to capture how our impact on the environment ultimately has human consequences. Players can cut down all the trees to build up their industry, but that will increase the risk of floods when the forest is not there to protect them. If they overfish, there won’t be any fish left to reproduce. If they pollute, that pollution will get in the way later on.

All of these relationships between the players and the river exist in reality to some degree. Players learn a bit about the kinds of decisions that go into environmental management and sustainability as they come up with their strategies for winning the game. An important point to me about this was “show, don’t tell.” The game doesn’t tell you about the risks of your actions; it lets you see for yourself.

The game features a variety of roles, each with its own objectives and strategies. Can you tell us more about how players navigate these roles and the potential conflicts that arise?

Ben: Each player has two objectives that must be accomplished for that player to win. Say you and I both want to build a city. We can work together on that because our interests are aligned. But then if my other objective is to clean pollution out of the river and yours is to stockpile fish, we might find that difference creates conflict. Maybe the way you gather fish will create pollution, which is a problem for me. Alternatively, if we both want to stockpile fish, we might run into a scarcity problem when there aren’t enough fish available for the two of us. In that case, we could be in direct competition.

An important point is that we don’t know what each other’s objectives are. Like in real life, we can only interpret one another’s behavior and talk to each other to try to figure out where we stand. If one of us is lying, that could cause more tension. Maybe I promise you I won’t fish in your part of the river, but at the last minute, I betray that trust and do it anyway.

The game also offers solo and two-player modes, which is quite intriguing. How does this work?

Ben: The solo and two-player modes change the dynamic from being about diplomacy to being purely about sustainability. In these versions of the game, you, and possibly a partner, want to stockpile fish, build a city and do it without leaving any pollution behind. So you have to develop your industry in a way that is harmonious with the environment you live in. You must deal with the consequences of your own actions rather than letting those actions become someone else’s problem. In practice, this makes for a much more puzzly type of game.

It’s impressive to see your dedication to sustainability not only reflected in the game’s themes but also in its production. Can you tell us more about your environmental commitments and the steps you’ve taken to minimize the game’s ecological footprint?

Ben: It is hard to make an environmentally friendly board game, but I’m doing my best. The Forest Stewardship Council approves all of the paper and wooden materials to avoid contributing to deforestation. I am also minimizing the use of plastic in the game. Ideally, the final product will not use any plastic at all. Hopefully, we’ll end up with a product that lasts a long time, is produced sustainably and can be recycled at the end of its life.

What’s your end goal for this game?  

Ben: Gosh! That’s a hard question. I would just like to see this game out in the world. If people can play it and enjoy it, then I’ll be happy. I would also really love to see it used as a teaching tool, and maybe even inspire other games to balance education with fun. That, to me, is an important point. A game can’t really be educational if it isn’t fun because if it can’t hold the player’s interest, then they aren’t going to learn anything from it. I hope I’ve made a game that is fun first and foremost but also makes people think.

Lastly, before we wrap up, what do you love most about rivers? 

Ben: Looking at them! I don’t know about you, but when I was a kid and it rained, I would always run to the nearest trickle of water. I’d pile up sticks and rocks to make dams, bends and rapids, and then just watch the water flow. There’s something so captivating about flowing water.

I grew up hiking through the Appalachians and Shenandoah Valley. I have a particular affinity for Catoctin Mountain, which is in western Maryland along the Appalachian range and whose streams flow down to become part of the Potomac. I would hike from there to Harpers Ferry, where the Shenandoah and Potomac meet. I’d follow the little streams to the river and watch them become whitewater rapids. It was an important, magical part of my life.

Thank you so much, Ben, for sharing with us today. “We All Take from the River” sounds like an incredible board game with a meaningful message. We’re so excited to check it out and share one with a lucky member of the Forever Our Rivers family. We wish you the best of luck and look forward to seeing the game come to fruition.

Ben: No, thank you! I think Forever Our Rivers is doing some really wonderful and important work. I love that I can be a part of it any way I can.

Riverside Majesty is A Symbol of Luck

While the American robin is often considered the classic harbinger of spring, it’s the red-winged blackbird that strikes the hearts of many this season with its distinctive call. Few birds evoke as much fascination and mystery as they do, with their glossy black plumage and vibrant red patches on their wings. But what adds to their allure is the rich tapestry of folklore that surrounds them, casting the red-winged blackbird as a symbol of protection, good luck and prosperity.

In ancient tales and legends across cultures, the red-winged blackbird plays a prominent role as a symbol of good luck and fortune. In Native American folklore, their distinctive call, reminiscent of a creaking door or rusty hinge, is believed to be messages from the spirit world, bringing joy and abundance to those who encounter them.

But why is the red-winged blackbird associated with good fortune? Some believe it’s because of its striking appearance, with its bold red patches symbolizing vitality and energy. Others attribute its lucky status to its adaptability, thriving in diverse and sometimes harsh habitats and weather conditions all over North America. For generations, Native Americans have held a deep respect for this bird due to its courageous nature in facing danger without wavering or succumbing to fear.

Furthermore, red-winged blackbirds symbolize abundance and prosperity in many cultures. Its arrival signifies the promise of a new start—farmers welcome it as a sign that their crops will flourish, while fishermen view it as a promise of plentiful catches.

In addition to their cultural importance, red-winged blackbirds are crucial to the environment. They play a vital role in preserving ecological balance by controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds. Farmers benefit from red-winged blackbirds during breeding season because these birds consume a significant number of insects.

Despite the good luck the red-winged blackbirds seem to bring, they could use a little luck themselves. These birds face various threats, including habitat loss and climate change. In just 52 years, the population has declined by 92 million. To ensure their survival, it’s crucial to protect the rivers, streams, wetlands and marshes they rely on.

So, the next time you encounter a red-winged blackbird perched along the riverside or hear its call echoing through a marshland, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and significance of this remarkable creature. Remember that beyond the realm of myth and legend, the red-winged blackbird plays a vital role in the web of life, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all living—and perhaps even spiritual—things.

As we celebrate the presence of the red-winged blackbird, let’s also come together to cherish the rivers, streams, marshes, wetlands and other bodies of water that sustain us all—flora and fauna included. For in the delicate balance of nature lies the true essence of prosperity and good fortune.

G50 Boat Ramp: Bridging Gaps and Enhancing Access with Conservation 

With funding from Forever Our Rivers, a new boat ramp offers easy access to the Gunnison River in Colorado. For those who don’t know, nearly one-third of kids live in poverty on Colorado’s Western Slope. Usually, this cascades into a lack of time in nature and its life-enriching benefits, making our hearts sad. Thankfully, a new boat ramp will be a game-changer for the people of Delta, Montrose and Olathe. After all, the rivers are for all of us.

And for those skeptics worried that a new boat ramp might harm the environment, don’t worry! Native trees and shrubs were planted along the river banks, creating a beautiful new area ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, birding and a genuine connection with nature. Plus, local volunteers were entrusted with the responsibility of looking after this spot, giving them the knowledge of how to keep it in tip-top shape.

Bridging Gaps for Underserved Communities

The strategically located boat ramp project along G50 Road, just 3.5 miles from Delta’s town boat ramp, expands accessibility to new demographics. Prior to the installation of the new boat ramp, river users accessed the Gunnison River from the Confluence Park boat ramp in Delta. However, the next legal exit point downstream was a whopping 14 miles away. While this might sound like an adventurous day out for some, it could be overwhelming and unsafe for those with less river experience. The creation of a shorter float with official put-ins and take-outs now allows families and beginners to enjoy a safer river experience. And hopefully, as they experience and enjoy the river, they will fall in love with and care for it.

Not into floating? The improved access area is a great place for walks, lunches, reading, drawing or other outdoor activities you might enjoy along a river. This transformation is thanks to dozens of students from Paonia and Delta middle schools and community volunteers. They helped cultivate and plant cottonwood and plum trees, as well as alders and willows. As the new plants grow, it will become increasingly special for birdwatching. Which, by the way, is just as good for you mentally as being on the water! More volunteers are always welcome, so if you want to help the new cottonwood and willows survive, reach out to some key players in this project—Libby at Colorado West Land Trust (CWLT) or Jake at the Western Slope Conservation Center (WSCC). 

“The new G50 Boat Ramp project is a great example of generating greater recreation access to nature while enhancing wildlife habitat. We look forward to the collaboration of bringing more folks of all ages together to enjoy the river and help with restoring the native plants,” exclaims Libby, program manager at CWLT.

Collaboration Is Key

The property on which the picnic area and boat ramp are is owned by Delta County and protected with a conservation easement managed by CWLT. “Restoring riparian ecosystems is extremely important for sustaining rivers and wildlife in western Colorado. The G50 project provides an excellent opportunity to connect the community to the Gunnison River and help re-establish vital habitat”, said Jake. Knowing this land could do so much more for people and wildlife, WSCC, along with CWLT and the county, got to work.

A Lasting Impact

The G50 Boat Ramp and Habitat Improvement Project, fueled by funding from Forever Our Rivers, is sure to have a positive impact on the community. As more people come to know the Gunnison River, more people will learn to cherish it. How’s that for jump-starting some environmental love? We are so proud of these local organizations. They successfully demonstrated the power of collaboration, conservation and community. We definitely love that!

Delta County is planning a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebration this spring. While the date is yet to be determined, stay connected with these organizations—info below. Or contact Delta County if you’d like more details.


If you’re interested in supporting other projects like the G50 Boat Ramp, please give today.

Follow the Western Slope Conservation Center on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Colorado West Land Trust on social, too—Instagram and Facebook.