Reclaim. Restore. Protect.
THE BADUWA’T RIVER
IT STARTS WITH US
A NONPROFIT STAKEHOLDER GROUP ORGANIZED TO
RECLAIM, RESTORE, PROTECT THE BADUWA’T WATERSHED.
Since 2011, the Baduwa’t Watershed Council (formerly Mad River Alliance) has been at the forefront of reclaiming, restoring, and protecting nearly 100 miles of this vital watershed.
The watershed is home to thousands of fish and wildlife species. It is the drinking water for over 90,000 Humboldt County residents.
Due to harmful industrial practices, this vital river is currently listed under the Clean Water Act’s Section 303(d) for impairments of its water quality.
We urgently need your support to continue our critical work to restore and safeguard this essential ecosystem for future generations.
help us
reclaim, restore, protect Baduwa’t before it’s too late.
Donate today and leave a legacy for tomorrow.
“It’s not Mad River, it is Baduwa’t.” ~ Michelle Hernandez, Wiyot Tribal Member
Reclaiming the original name, Baduwa’t, instead of "Mad River," is a powerful step in honoring the Indigenous heritage of this vital watershed. Baduwa’t, meaning ‘source of life,’ has been the lifeblood of the Wiyot and neighboring tribes for thousands of years, who have traditionally managed the river using sustainable methods. The river, stretching 113 miles through Humboldt County, California, was renamed "Mad River" by colonizers in 1849 after a trivial argument among explorers surveying the area. This name, later adopted by the U.S. government without the consent of the Wiyot or other tribes, erased its true cultural significance. Restoring the name Baduwa’t acknowledges the deep connection Indigenous peoples have to this land and river, and it brings awareness to the history, stewardship, and resilience of the Wiyot and their ancestors.
Learn more about the story and efforts to reclaim Baduwa’t.
“We’re creating a movement and it’s all starting in this little community.”
Before
After
Restore
“The watershed was hammered pretty hard and it’s going to take more time for it to heal.” ~ Bill Trush, PhD-Stream Ecologist
The renaming of Baduwa’t to "Mad River" marked the beginning of a series of destructive events, including the gold, timber, and green rushes, that have severely impacted the watershed. Poor land management practices, coupled with the ongoing effects of climate change, continue to threaten this unique ecosystem. Baduwa’t is not only a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and fisheries, but it also provides drinking water for nearly 90,000 people—most of Humboldt County’s residents. By restoring the Baduwa’t watershed, we can reverse decades of damage and ensure that this vital source of life thrives for future generations.
“I believe we are at a tipping point. We need to look back at traditional ways and improve our practices here. And that’s being done.”
PROTECT
“I think it’s great to try to lock in permanent protections for resources that we haven’t yet screwed up. That’s really what it’s all about.” ~ Jared Huffman, Congressman 2nd District California
Baduwa’t is not just a river; it’s a climate refuge, a source of life for wildlife, fish, and thousands of residents. By supporting the protection and restoration of Baduwa’t, you can help safeguard this critical watershed for generations to come. Together, we can return to traditional land stewardship, implement sustainable management practices, and place lasting protections on this vital ecosystem. Your donation is an investment in the future of our river, our community, and the planet.
“When you get more people involved, you have a stronger hope base; then, we have more people that are speaking more for the rivers.”
TRAILER FOR BADUWA’T DOCUMENTARY
BADUWA’T DOCUMENTARY
The Baduwa’t Watershed Council is proud to present an upcoming documentary, launching in late 2024. This film tells the powerful story of the Baduwa’t River—its deep importance to our community, its uncertain future, and the urgent need to Restore, Reclaim, and Protect it for generations to come.
By donating, you can help us spread the word. You can also host a screening to help increase awareness. Your support is key to ensuring that more people learn about the river’s significance and how we can all make a difference. Donate today and help share the story of Baduwa’t.
TAKE ACTION …
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Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference. Please consider donating $10 or more to help protect and restore the Baduwa’t watershed for future generations.
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Whether you can give an hour a month, a week, or more, your help is invaluable! We host clean-up projects, fundraising events, and educational tours, and we’d love to have you join our efforts. If you’re interested, reach out and let’s work together to protect the Baduwa’t watershed.
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Become a proud sponsor of the Baduwa’t Watershed Council and showcase your commitment to protecting our vital natural resources. Whether you want to support all our efforts or focus on a specific area that aligns with your business values, we’d love to partner with you. As a sponsor, your business will be featured in our marketing, demonstrating your leadership in environmental stewardship and community support. Let’s work together to protect Baduwa’t for future generations. Contact us today to explore sponsorship opportunities and make a lasting impact.
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We’re passionate about connecting with the community, and we’d love to bring our team to your school, college, or organization. Whether you're looking for presentations, interactive workshops, or educational talks, we can tailor our content to engage and inspire all ages. Let’s work together to raise awareness and foster a deeper understanding of the Baduwa’t watershed. Get in touch to schedule a visit.