I still remember the first time I truly felt the power and beauty of West Virginia. Finding myself on the tranquility of the Shenandoah River, I knew the river and West Virginia would shape the rest of my life. The splashing waves, the quiet bends, and the people who stood up to protect them truly changed me. 

But my story isn’t unique. 

From lifelong residents to first-time visitors, people fall in love with West Virginia every day, and they carry that connection wherever they go. I’ve met people across the country, even abroad, who light up at the mention of a favorite trail, stream, or mountain memory. You can hear “Country Roads” blasting on full volume at the German pub below your hotel room, more than 4000 miles away, and feel right at home.

That’s the power of this place. 

But Not Everyone Shares in the Joy 

Clean water is still out of reach for many communities across West Virginia. For many, their reality is filled with streams polluted by industrial runoff, places where swimming, fishing, and even drinking from the tap come with fear.

That’s why WV Rivers exists. And it’s why we need the support of people like you. So, won’t you consider supporting WV Rivers as we continue our journey in protecting the rivers, public lands, and communities that make the mountain state such a special place?

With your gift, you will help:

✅ Improve and protect water supplies across the state
✅ Safeguard pristine rivers and the lands they flow through
✅ Empower communities working for clean water and public land access
✅ Advocate for strong protections to ensure clean and healthy waters for all

While we strive every day to make a significant impact for clean water, protected public lands, and healthy communities, this West Virginia day, we can truly make a difference, together.

Thank you for being part of our community and for helping us protect everything that makes West Virginia extraordinary.

For clean water and healthy communities,
Crys

Crys Bauer
Development Manager
WV Rivers Coalition