Part of the Gila River Festival.

Location: Online and in-person at WNMU Global Resource Center Auditorium
Suggested Donation: $10

Join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion as we delve into the future of New Mexico’s last wild river through the eyes of our community’s diverse voices. Each speaker brings a unique perspective: Martha Cooper, Freshwater Director for The Nature Conservancy in New Mexico, will illuminate the challenges ahead for river protection amidst a changing climate. NM Wild’s Luke Koenig will share efforts to safeguard the Gila Wilderness and preserve the wildness of the Gila River for generations to come. Ray Trejo of the New Mexico Wildlife Federation will highlight the Gila River’s vital role in sustaining the ecology of the Gila region.

Adding invaluable Indigenous wisdom, Fort Sill Chiricahua Warm Springs Apache Tribal Historian Michael Darrow and Joe Saenz of the Chiricahua Apache Nation will share their perspectives on stewardship of the Gila watershed. Silver City Mayor Pro Tem Guadalupe Cano will address accessibility issues related to the Wilderness, ensuring inclusivity in conservation efforts. Corina Castillo of Gila Resources Information Project will passionately voice the aspirations of young people shaping the future of the Gila River.

Moderated by Allyson Siwik of Gila Resources Information Project, this promises to be an exciting conversation, inspiring future conservation initiatives and community engagement.