The Impact of a $10 Million Donation on River Conservation Efforts Across the U.S.
In a prestigious announcement made on November 12, 2025, American Rivers revealed that it has received an unprecedented $10 million donation from the James M. Cox Foundation, part of Cox Enterprises, which is also the parent company of Cox Communications. This significant contribution is part of American Rivers' campaign titled "Life Depends on Rivers®" and marks the largest grant in the organization’s history. The funding is aimed at enhancing river restoration across all 50 states, crucial for improving public safety, habitat integrity, and river health.
Tom Kiernan, President and CEO of American Rivers, expressed immense gratitude towards the Cox Foundation, highlighting the essential role that clean rivers and water play in fostering healthy environments, lively communities, and robust economies. He noted, "Every investment we make in our rivers pays dividends in the long run." This generous donation will not only bolster the conservation movement but also inspire further contributions from others who share a passion for protecting vital water systems.
Jim Kennedy, the chairman emeritus of Cox Enterprises and head of the James M. Cox Foundation, also emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, "Protecting and restoring our rivers is something all of us can do to help wildlife, our communities and future generations." He encouraged others to join them in these critical efforts.
The backdrop of this donation comes at a time when many rivers in the United States are facing severe challenges, including pollution, dam constructions, and the impacts of extreme weather conditions. American Rivers aims to raise $100 million through the Life Depends on Rivers campaign to tackle these urgent issues, thereby revitalizing the health of rivers nationwide. Mark Greatrex, President of Cox Communications and a board member of American Rivers, honored the donation by noting, "This grant is far more than a gift—it's a powerful commitment to revitalizing our rivers, protecting clean water, and preserving the natural systems that sustain us."
In an act demonstrating their commitment to environmental preservation, employees of American Rivers and Cox Communications came together for a river cleanup initiative at Blackwater River State Park following the announcement. This kind of active participation reflects Cox's ongoing efforts towards sustainability and conservation through volunteer activities and initiatives under the Cox Conserves program.
American Rivers is devoted to ensuring that every river remains clean and healthy for both people and wildlife. With over 50 years of experience, the organization combines evidence-based methodologies with longstanding partnerships to safeguard the 3.5 million miles of rivers and streams essential for the nation’s clean drinking water, diverse wildlife, and community resilience. The collective ethos that "Life Depends on Rivers" resonates through their operations and initiatives across the country.
The $10 million grant from the James M. Cox Foundation is a momentous step in American Rivers' quest to restore and protect the lifeblood of the environment. By addressing the severe conditions that threaten river ecosystems, this donation aims to not only heal rivers but also secure a sustainable future for generations to come. Efforts like these are essential in promoting a deeper understanding of the connection between water systems and overall ecological health, encouraging communities to take action in their local environments.
Tom Kiernan, President and CEO of American Rivers, expressed immense gratitude towards the Cox Foundation, highlighting the essential role that clean rivers and water play in fostering healthy environments, lively communities, and robust economies. He noted, "Every investment we make in our rivers pays dividends in the long run." This generous donation will not only bolster the conservation movement but also inspire further contributions from others who share a passion for protecting vital water systems.
Jim Kennedy, the chairman emeritus of Cox Enterprises and head of the James M. Cox Foundation, also emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, "Protecting and restoring our rivers is something all of us can do to help wildlife, our communities and future generations." He encouraged others to join them in these critical efforts.
The backdrop of this donation comes at a time when many rivers in the United States are facing severe challenges, including pollution, dam constructions, and the impacts of extreme weather conditions. American Rivers aims to raise $100 million through the Life Depends on Rivers campaign to tackle these urgent issues, thereby revitalizing the health of rivers nationwide. Mark Greatrex, President of Cox Communications and a board member of American Rivers, honored the donation by noting, "This grant is far more than a gift—it's a powerful commitment to revitalizing our rivers, protecting clean water, and preserving the natural systems that sustain us."
In an act demonstrating their commitment to environmental preservation, employees of American Rivers and Cox Communications came together for a river cleanup initiative at Blackwater River State Park following the announcement. This kind of active participation reflects Cox's ongoing efforts towards sustainability and conservation through volunteer activities and initiatives under the Cox Conserves program.
American Rivers is devoted to ensuring that every river remains clean and healthy for both people and wildlife. With over 50 years of experience, the organization combines evidence-based methodologies with longstanding partnerships to safeguard the 3.5 million miles of rivers and streams essential for the nation’s clean drinking water, diverse wildlife, and community resilience. The collective ethos that "Life Depends on Rivers" resonates through their operations and initiatives across the country.
The $10 million grant from the James M. Cox Foundation is a momentous step in American Rivers' quest to restore and protect the lifeblood of the environment. By addressing the severe conditions that threaten river ecosystems, this donation aims to not only heal rivers but also secure a sustainable future for generations to come. Efforts like these are essential in promoting a deeper understanding of the connection between water systems and overall ecological health, encouraging communities to take action in their local environments.
Topics Environment）
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