Who We Are
Mission
The Returning Rapids Project brings together researchers, scientists, river runners, and journalists to study the changes and share the story of the Colorado and San Juan Rivers as they recover from Glen Canyon Dam.
We function as a project under Glen Canyon Institute.
What We Do
We bring people together to explore, examine, and engage with the river corridors and side canyons recovering from the impacts of Glen Canyon Dam - primarily the Colorado River's Cataract Canyon and the lower San Juan River. These places can be challenging to explore so we facilitate access for those who want to study and learn from the dynamic landscape.
We work with scientists, students, journalists, media creators, river runners, government agencies, and conservationists to elevate the story of the river's ability to recover at a remarkable rate even when unmanaged. In the face of climate change this story provides hope that ecological memory runs deep and recovery is possible.
We talk about and study sediment in the system - where it is and where it isn't - to highlight that reservoir impacts are greater and more complex than those caused by impounded water alone.
We highlight the history - geologic and cultural - of the areas affected by Lake Powell reservoir. Historic photos, books, and maps help us understand what was there prior to the reservoir. As resources re-emerge we make a record so that managers will be more aware of what will be lost or damaged when reservoir levels fluctuate.
As permits allow, we share our findings with the public and make our collected information as accessible as possible. We encourage the sharing of ideas, data, and project work. We seek to work with those who will be collaborative because we can do this work better together.
We go boating and take pictures :)
We tell the story
For the river