Hello Earthwin community,
I’m Kate, a former Earthwin student participant and thanks to Earthwin I am attending NYU studying Environmental Economics. Earthwin hired me as the Director of Strategic Communications. I am so excited to share an inspiring story about how youth and community members came together to restore the Crooked River Riparian zone in Prineville, Oregon.
The Neglect of Crooked River
In Central Oregon, the Crooked River has long been a natural treasure, but years of neglect led to ecological damage, threatening both wildlife and the community. Something had to change.
The Birth of the Crooked River Project
It all started when students from Crook County High School saw the potential to create a safe river access zone for the community while restoring habitat for local wildlife. With a clear vision of humans and nature thriving together, they approached Earthwin to help bring their vision to life.
It all started when students from Crook County High School saw the potential to create a safe river access zone for the community while restoring habitat for local wildlife. With a clear vision of humans and nature thriving together, they approached Earthwin to help bring their vision to life.
Collaborating with Earthwin
Partnering with Crook County Parks and Recreation and the City of Prineville, we identified a 26-acre plot along the river, ripe for restoration. The Crooked River Project was born, and together we began transforming this neglected space into a vibrant community park.
Partnering with Crook County Parks and Recreation and the City of Prineville, we identified a 26-acre plot along the river, ripe for restoration. The Crooked River Project was born, and together we began transforming this neglected space into a vibrant community park.
Phase I: Community Effort and Restoration
Over 200 students, teachers, and volunteers rolled up their sleeves and removed invasive weeds, tires, and debris. Their hard work marked the beginning of a healthier, more vibrant space for everyone to enjoy. This is just the start.
Over 200 students, teachers, and volunteers rolled up their sleeves and removed invasive weeds, tires, and debris. Their hard work marked the beginning of a healthier, more vibrant space for everyone to enjoy. This is just the start.
The Power of Experiential Learning
Studies show that experiential learning makes education stick, engaging students more deeply and instilling a sense of ownership. The Crooked River Project showcases the power of hands-on learning, turning our youth into future
Studies show that experiential learning makes education stick, engaging students more deeply and instilling a sense of ownership. The Crooked River Project showcases the power of hands-on learning, turning our youth into future
environmental leaders and problem solvers.
Looking Ahead: Phase II
Next up? We’re raising funds for Phase II, which will bring a paved river trail to the community. This trail will make the river accessible to all and boost local biodiversity, providing a beautiful space for recreation and gatherings.
Next up? We’re raising funds for Phase II, which will bring a paved river trail to the community. This trail will make the river accessible to all and boost local biodiversity, providing a beautiful space for recreation and gatherings.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Your support has been crucial in making this possible, and we need you now more than ever. Help us make Phase II a reality and continue to empower our youth through environmental stewardship.
Your support has been crucial in making this possible, and we need you now more than ever. Help us make Phase II a reality and continue to empower our youth through environmental stewardship.
Thank You for Your Generous Support!
Together, we're building a brighter, healthier future for both our youth and our community. Let’s keep this journey going!
Together, we're building a brighter, healthier future for both our youth and our community. Let’s keep this journey going!
Our Partners:
Crook County Parks and Recreation: https://www.ccprd.org/
Crooked River Weed Management: https://crcwma.org/
Crooked River Watershed Council: https://www.crwc.info/
Crook County Soil & Water Conservation District: https://www.crookswcd.com/
Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council: https://www.coic.org/
Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board: https://www.oregon.gov/oweb/pages/index.aspx
Oregon Dept Fish and Wildlife: https://www.dfw.state.or.us/
Crooked River Weed Management: https://crcwma.org/
Crooked River Watershed Council: https://www.crwc.info/
Crook County Soil & Water Conservation District: https://www.crookswcd.com/
Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council: https://www.coic.org/
Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board: https://www.oregon.gov/oweb/pages/index.aspx
Oregon Dept Fish and Wildlife: https://www.dfw.state.or.us/
Kate Koblegarde
Director of Strategic Communications, Earthwin™
Director of Strategic Communications, Earthwin™
