The Impact You Make
With your help, we connect people with the San Lorenzo every day - from thousands of youth Watershed Rangers to hundreds of volunteers who visit, learn about, and protect the river for the plants and animals who depend on it. DonateThe Coastal Watershed Council is transforming the lower San Lorenzo River into a community destination by inspiring people to explore, enhance and protect this critical natural resource.
Read CWC’s Latest News
Seeking Artist to Guide San Lorenzo Park Community Project
Vibrant parks are critical infrastructure in healthy, equitable communities. San Lorenzo Park is the largest park in downtown Santa Cruz, directly adjacent to the San Lorenzo River and diverse riverside neighborhoods. The park was created in the redevelopment project...
Preparing Neighborhoods for San Lorenzo River Flood Impacts
Residents who live along the lower San Lorenzo River are predicted to experience more extreme storms and flooding as a result of climate change. The Beach Flats and Lower Ocean neighborhoods, which straddle the mouth of the San Lorenzo River where it enters the...
Significant River Levee Management Change Mandated by FEMA
Originally published December 12, 2022, updated on December 14, 2022, with results from City Council action There have always been requirements to maintain the levees following specific protocols, since their construction by the Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950s....
How We Do It
People rely on and impact the San Lorenzo River every day. That’s why CWC’s programs and partnerships bring you to discover your river, learn something new and inspire you to act. CWC’s dualistic approach of healthy watersheds, thriving communities brings fun, education, recreation and innovation to Santa Cruzans every day and creates value for your community.
Improving Water Quality
Enhancing Habitat
Empowering Youth
Conducting Community Science
Increasing Access and Safety
Increasing Positive Activity
Building Community Capacity
Sustaining Flows
Your Donation Makes a Big Difference
Every dollar you give, drives action for cleaner water and healthier habitat and helps CWC reach thousands of river champions of all ages. By donating, you join a growing group of people committed to transforming the San Lorenzo River into a community destination by inspiring people to explore and protect it. It’s easy to donate online today.
You Have a Role To Play
Volunteer today and use your time, skills, energy and ideas to drive change for the San Lorenzo River and the Santa Cruz Riverwalk, the urban park that lines its banks. There’s a role for everyone – including you. How will you join the movement?