State of the Yuba 2026

Join the South Yuba River Citizens League for our annual State of the Yuba event on Wednesday, April 15 at the Miners Foundry — a free, family-friendly, public report to the watershed community and an invitation to take action for the river. The Miners Foundry will offer a no-host bar with drinks for purchase, and Petra will be offering a delightful menu of food items for purchase!

This year’s event holds special significance. On January 1, 2026, the South Yuba River marked 25 years of protection under California’s Wild & Scenic Rivers Act. We’ll celebrate this milestone and honor the community that made it possible while looking ahead to the work that keeps the river wild, scenic, and resilient. 

What to Expect 

Each spring since 2013, SYRCL has hosted State of the Yuba to report on the condition of the river and share our vision for the future. This year’s program at the Miners Foundry in Nevada City will feature updates on: 

• Current watershed conditions and water quality monitoring 
• The 25th anniversary of Wild & Scenic designation and what it means today 
• SYRCL’s response to the New Colgate Powerhouse failure and ongoing monitoring efforts
• Meadow restoration, salmon habitat projects, and forest health work 
• Education programs connecting young people to the watershed 
• Policy advocacy protecting clean water and river flows 
• Volunteer and engagement opportunities for 2026 
• And fun activities for kids of all ages

Attendees will have the opportunity to interact directly with SYRCL staff and ask questions about all our programs during the open house starting at 5:30 PM.

The speaking portion of the program begins at 6:30 PM. 

Food and beverages will be available for purchase (see below).

Honoring Our Community 

SYRCL will recognize the people and organizations that make our work possible by honoring: 

• Volunteer of the Year 
• Sponsor of the Year 
• Partner of the Year 
• Guardian of the Yuba
• Environmentalist of the Year Scholarship Award Winner

These awards celebrate the community commitment that has protected the Yuba River for decades and continues to drive our work today.