Protecting & restoring the rivers & fisheries of Idaho since 1990.

Our rivers are one of Idaho’s most cherished assets and should remain protected, healthy, and wild. We work to increase river protections throughout the state through increasing Idaho’s Wild & Scenic River designations, water policy, education, and advocacy.

For over three decades, IRU has been the leading voice for Idaho’s wild fish, with most of our efforts focused on our declining salmon and steelhead. We work to protect and recover Idaho’s wild fish through advocacy, policy work, engaging with our leaders, community education, and partnerships. See current fish returns here.

IRU is committed to mining reform and minimizing the negative impacts of irresponsible mining from the headwaters to the mouth of Idaho’s rivers. we will continue to monitor, provide comment, and object, as necessary, to proposed mining operations within Idaho.

We’re committed to protecting the health of our waterways state-wide. Clean water is vital to the health and vitality of our communities and ecosystems. We work to improve the health of our rivers through urban river initiatives, minimizing the impacts of development on rivers, and community engagement. We also do this through hydropower reform work.

Idaho Rivers United plays a central role in the Hydropower Reform Coalition, an organization that protects, enhances, and restores America’s rivers, watersheds, and communities affected by hydropower operations. The Coalition is comprised of 160 conservation organizations throughout the United States, and engages in policy, standards, licensing, and projects surrounding hydropower issues.

Idaho Rivers United has grown into a statewide organization, yet our roots are in grassroots advocacy. We understand the power of your voice. Whether the rivers you love are in your backyard or are your favorite place to play, you can have a say in how they are managed and protected. Speaking up for our waterways, rivers, and wild fish makes a difference. Your voice can influence policy, waterway protections, and elected officials.