What do a beer brewer, bread baker, water utility CEO, city councilor and fishing outfitter have in common? They’re all speaking up about the importance of clean, healthy rivers to our economy and communities.

These voices are part of the big thinking and fresh ideas our country needs right now to address the interconnected challenges of a public health crisis, longstanding social and environmental injustices, a historic economic downturn, and the impacts of climate change. Rivers run through these challenges and must be part of the solution.

American Rivers recently published a new report, “Rivers as economic engines: Investing in clean water, communities and our future” which makes the case for boosting federal spending on water infrastructure and river restoration to $500 billion over ten years, and presents a framework for equitable investment that will strengthen communities nationwide.

Along with the report, we created infographics and a poster series to help make the case for the transformational change we need. Partners and colleagues from across the country shared their perspective on why investing in rivers is important for our future. Ray Funnye, Director of Georgetown County Public Services in Georgetown County, South Carolina, calls his river a “superhighway” supporting the economy, community, eco-tourism and cultural heritage.

Kim Jordan, co-founder and former CEO of New Belgium Brewing says, “Clean water is essential for us to thrive together.”

It’s why we do the work we do every day. And it’s why we’re so grateful for supporters like you. Thank you for helping us create a better future.