While the Snowrider Project was initially conceived to give snowboarders and skiers a vehicle for environmental activism, the range of participants and activists has expanded to include kayakers, canoeists, back-country adventurers and others who appreciate the sanctity of a clean, connected system.

“From snow to the oceans and back again…”

What is the hydrological cycle?

The idea that all water is connected is the basis for the hydrological cycle. Rain and snow combine to make rivers and streams which flow out to the ocean where it is evaporated back into the atmosphere to start the whole process over again.

How do mountain watersheds affect our oceans, waves and beaches?

Each spring, winter snowfall that has accumulated in our country’s mountains begins to melt and starts its long journey to the sea. As this water travels down alpine creeks and streams, it picks up sediments. The water from these tributaries then merge into larger rivers, which often flow for hundreds of miles before reaching the coast. As water from these rivers empty into the ocean, coastal currents and waves spread sand and other sediments up and down the coast, helping to replenish our beaches. The water from these inland sources also contains nutrients that are crucial to maintain healthy coastal ecosystems such as estuaries, sloughs and marshes.

However the same water that flows down from our mountains also runs through agricultural and urban areas, where it can also pick up biological and toxic contaminates. Pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals used in farming can wreak havoc on downstream ecosystems. Cities and other developed area also take their toll on water quality. Rain washes litter and other debris down storm drains and into our oceans. Rain also washes grease and oils off roads and highways and into our watersheds. Even seemingly harmless things, such as lawn clippings and pet droppings can result in dramatic increases in potentially dangerous bacteria in our coastal waters.

How You Can Get Involved!

ACTIVISM: Organize or participate in a town clean-up in your community. In alpine areas, focus on upstream snow sheds, snow dumps or other snow storage areas. If you live downstream, stage a river clean-up or launch a storm drain stenciling campaign. Get involved with local & regional issues that affect your watersheds.

CONSERVATION: Be mindful of your personal water usage and encourage others to do so as well. Take advantage of public car wash facilities that recycle their water. Landscape using drought resistant plants. Use grass and garden clippings for compost instead of washing them down the gutter.

EDUCATION: Learn more about the water issues facing your local community. Find out if there are opportunities to speak at schools or classrooms in your area to educate students on the hydrological cycle and the importance of maintaining clean and healthy watersheds. Knowledge is power ­ we must put these tools in the hands of today’s youth.

Join the Surfrider Foundation!

Our organization is made up of grassroots volunteer activists who, like you, are concerned about protecting our world’s oceans, waves and beaches.

“I can’t express enough about how important the work of the Surfrider Foundation is. Being a member is the least I can do.”
- Tara Dakides, Pro Snowboarder
Surfrider Foundation member