Healthy Headwaters envisions resilient public watersheds throughout the western U.S. that provide safe and reliable water supplies for all downstream users while supporting healthy, functioning forested ecosystems.
Originally a project of Carpe Diem West, the Healthy Headwaters Alliance moved to the National Wildlife Federation in 2020. We are grateful for the visionary leadership and direction that Kimery Wiltshire provided in growing Healthy Headwaters from a concept to a working coalition.
Our vision: Healthy, resilient public watersheds throughout the western U.S. that provide safe and reliable water supplies for all downstream users while supporting healthy, functioning forested ecosystems.
Who we are: A network of western water innovators, including water utility executives, federal land managers, scientists, community and water justice leaders, and conservation professionals who share a commitment to equitable, science-based actions to build resilience back into the critical forested, headwaters of the West’s streams and rivers.
Our approach:
- Work as a coalition based on strong relationships, ongoing communications, and collaborative funding
- Share experiences and best practices for mutual learning and support
- Present informed perspectives based on diversity of affiliations and expertise
- Work to achieve our vision through education, dialogue, advocacy and collaborative project development and funding
- Engage with resource agency leaders to identify problems and test solutions
As described here, the National Wildlife Federation assumed the lead coordination role for the Healthy Headwaters Alliance in 2020, a strategic partnership aimed at achieving healthy forests, healthy water, healthy people, and water for wildlife.
Learn more about the connection between western fires, public water supplies, and innovative watershed partnerships to build resilience in this blog from Healthy Headwaters Leadership Team member Eugene Water and Electric Board.
For more information, contact Alicia Marrs, Director of Western Water, National Wildlife Federation.
