Did you know the Colorado River provides drinking water to over 40 million people and 5.5 million acres of farmland throughout the West? Due to decades of overuse, drought, and climate change, its water supply has been significantly reduced. That’s why FirstBank is partnering with Western Resource Advocates (WRA) to help protect critical waterways that support the environment, economy, and people of the West.

Jenn Simon, Associate Director of Development Operations at WRA, sat down with us to chat about WRA’s impact and how they advocate for the health of our rivers and communities.

How does WRA measure its impact on the environment and communities it serves? 

We measure our impact based on whether water is conserved, and critical waterways are protected and revitalized to support healthy ecosystems, communities, and outdoor recreation.

WRA develops, advocates for, and implements policies, programs, and river management strategies that save water and protect rivers by improving stream flow, reducing water use, and improving water planning. We respect the unique needs of communities in our region and partner with them to develop a shared vision for progress—one that advances their different needs while protecting biodiversity. WRA drives change by developing and influencing decisions made by state leaders and agencies, early adopters, and key water users to build and implement innovative and forward-thinking programs that can be applied at a larger scale. Thanks to our efforts, over 11 million acres of Western land has been protected, 45 bills have passed, and 76 million tons of yearly greenhouse gas reductions have been secured.

Can you discuss the Go Green campaign and your partnership with FirstBank? How does collaborating with businesses impact your success?

WRA moved our banking relationship to FirstBank in early 2022 due to its dedication to helping the environment. FirstBank is responsive and connected to our mission and organizational needs. They have ties to the communities we work in and a genuine commitment to serving those communities.

In the short time we have worked together, FirstBank joined our corporate sponsorship program, contributing the largest financial commitment since the program’s inception. They also launched the Go Green campaign, raising $60,000 to benefit WRA and two other nonprofits. This partnership has enabled them to advance water conservation, protect Western lands, and support our work to advance healthy rivers. We are grateful for our partnership with FirstBank and their support. Together, we are investing in sustainable solutions that make our home a better place.

Can you share a success story illustrating your organization’s impact on environmental conservation or sustainability?

In 2023, WRA partnered with the White Mountain Apache Tribe in Arizona to secure funding for water metering and public engagement programs, which will install over 570 water meters to help track water use, identify leaks, and support water conservation efforts.

In 2024, WRA played a key role in helping pass SB24-005 in the Colorado Senate. This bill will increase waterwise landscaping practices by prohibiting the installation of non-functional turf, invasive plant species, and artificial turf in certain areas. In addition to saving water, this bill reduces reliance on pesticides and gas-powered lawn equipment while creating space for native plants, birds, and bees to thrive. 

How does your organization prioritize its projects and initiatives?

Without urgent action to address the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, rising temperatures, drought, and habitat degradation will have profound effects on both people and nature. As we find ourselves at this critical tipping point, we must accelerate conservation at a pace and scale never seen before. In 2023, WRA launched a three-year strategic plan to expand our impact, accelerate conservation, and ensure the West is on track to meet ambitious climate goals.

WRA is advocating for new and innovative approaches to protecting the Colorado River. The Bureau of Reclamation is evaluating proposals for governing the Colorado River after 2026 when the current management guidelines expire. To influence this historic federal decision-making process, WRA and our partners submitted a proposal providing a roadmap to protect the river we depend on.

How can people get involved with WRA? Or make a positive environmental impact?

What each of us does today, and over the next few years, will set the course for our future. Making progress in the fight against climate change and its impacts is a shared challenge we can meet if we work together. Identify the actions you can commit to, follow through on, and encourage others to do the same. Supporting WRA through regular giving helps drive change. Individuals who commit to making recurring gifts become members of The Source, a giving society that honors loyal donors.

Visit westernresourceadvocates.org to stay updated and learn how to get involved. You can also follow WRA on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay informed about our impact.

How can you help? When you open a FirstBank checking account, the bank will donate to Western Resource Advocates and other planet-friendly nonprofits. Read “Make a Difference Today: Plant Trees, Save Bees, Win an E-Bike” at efirstbankblog.com to learn more.

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*FirstBank will donate $4 per FirstBank checking account opened online or in-person, up to $60,000, towards One Tree Planted, Project Apis m. and Western Resource Advocates. Offer is available to new and existing customers. Offer is only valid from June 1, 2024, through August 30, 2024.