Copper River Watershed Project: Comprehensive Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Copper River Watershed Project (CRWP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting a salmon-rich, intact watershed and culturally diverse communities within Alaska's Copper River region. Established in 1999 by founder Riki Ott, CRWP operates offices in Cordova and Glennallen, Alaska, and collaborates with various stakeholders to implement watershed-scale planning and projects.

Mission and Vision

CRWP's mission is to support a salmon-rich, intact watershed and culturally diverse communities through partnerships for watershed-scale planning and projects. The organization envisions a vibrant and healthy future for the Copper River watershed, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development that balances economic diversification with the preservation of quality of life for residents.

Primary Area of Focus

CRWP focuses on fish habitat restoration, invasive plant management, watershed education, and sustainable tourism development. By addressing these areas, the organization aims to ensure the long-term prosperity of the region's ecosystems and communities.

Industry Significance

As one of the last intact watersheds in North America, the Copper River watershed is critical for the spawning and rearing of three species of wild salmon. These salmon are foundational to the ecosystem, culture, and economy of the region. CRWP's efforts are vital in maintaining the health and sustainability of this unique watershed.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Fish Habitat Restoration: Identifying, monitoring, and restoring salmon habitats throughout the Copper River drainage.

Invasive Plant Management: Coordinating efforts to treat and control invasive plant species that threaten native ecosystems.

Watershed Education: Providing educational programs for K-12 students to foster a connection with the watershed and promote stewardship.

Sustainable Tourism Development: Collaborating with local partners to attract environmentally conscious travelers and support the local economy.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Fish Passage Restoration: Replacing undersized or failing culverts to restore natural fish migration routes.

Community Engagement: Involving local residents in conservation efforts and educational programs.

Environmental Education: Implementing programs that integrate science learning with outdoor experiences.

Key Technologies Utilized

Geographic Information Systems (GIS): For mapping and analyzing watershed data.

Environmental Monitoring Tools: To assess water quality and habitat conditions.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Local Communities: Enhancing quality of life through sustainable practices.

Salmon Populations: Ensuring healthy habitats for spawning and rearing.

Tourism Industry: Developing resources to attract visitors interested in eco-tourism.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

CRWP has secured funding from various sources, including federal and state agencies, private foundations, and individual donors. In 2023, the organization reported total revenues of $3,464,680 and expenses of $3,333,511.

Recent Funding Rounds

In 2022, CRWP was awarded nearly $105 million through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for 36 new fish passage projects. This funding is being utilized for culvert replacement and fish passage restoration projects in the Copper River Delta near Cordova.

Notable Investors

Key funding partners include the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA).

Intended Utilization of Capital

The capital is primarily allocated towards habitat restoration projects, invasive plant management, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives. Specific projects include culvert replacements to restore fish passage and the Eyak Lake Weir Replacement Project to improve fish migration routes.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Little Tonsina River Bridge Installation: Completed in 2024, this project restored access to 71 miles of upstream salmon-rearing habitat in a critical spawning tributary of the Copper River.

Eyak Lake Weir Replacement Project: Scheduled to begin construction in 2026, this project aims to improve fish passage upstream and downstream of the weir while maintaining current water levels to protect nearshore spawning sites for salmon.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

As a nonprofit environmental organization, CRWP does not engage in clinical trials or product development.

Target Conditions

The primary focus is on restoring and preserving fish habitats, particularly for salmon species, and addressing environmental challenges such as invasive plant species and stormwater runoff.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

2026: Commencement of the Eyak Lake Weir Replacement Project.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

CRWP utilizes GIS for mapping and analyzing watershed data, aiding in habitat restoration planning and monitoring.

Significant Scientific Methods

Fish Passage Restoration: Implementing culvert replacements to restore natural fish migration routes.

Invasive Plant Management: Coordinating efforts to treat and control invasive plant species that threaten native ecosystems.

Environmental Education: Providing outdoor exploration opportunities for K-12 students to foster a connection with the watershed and promote stewardship.

Leadership Team

Executive Director

Kate Morse: Serving as Executive Director since September 2024, Kate has been with CRWP since 2008, initially as Program Director. She holds a Master's in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management from the University of Oregon.

Program Director

Alexis Cooper: With over 10 years in the Copper River watershed, Alexis has a background in commercial fisheries policy and nonprofit management. She manages grant agreements, partnership agreements, and contributes to policy and procedures within the organization.

GIS & Data Manager

Ashley Taylor: Joining CRWP in 2019, Ashley holds a Master's degree in GIS and Web Map Programming and has 13 years of environmental fieldwork experience. She manages GIS projects and data-related work across various programs.

Operations Manager

Kimberlee Casavan: Since 2018, Kimberlee has been with CRWP, bringing a wide range of experience to her role as Operations Manager. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and is passionate about preserving the watershed's habitat.

Climate Change Coordinator

Colleen Merrick: A biologist leading climate adaptation efforts in South Central Alaska, Colleen coordinates with various stakeholders to implement the Regional Climate Change Adaptation Plan. She has a background in human health and fisheries management.

Watershed Restoration Specialist

Darcy Saiget: Joining CRWP in 2025, Darcy is a fish biologist with over 17 years of experience in aquatic habitat assessment and restoration. She is passionate about collaborative watershed management and conservation of aquatic ecosystems.

Communications Specialist

Michelle McAfee: Starting in 2022, Michelle manages CRWP's social media, newsletters, emails, and website updates. She is based in Southern Oregon and enjoys staying connected to the Copper River watershed through her work.

Partnership Administrator

Amy Scudder: Beginning in 2024, Amy engages partners to connect the vast geology and hydrology in the region. She holds a B.S. in Biology and an M.S. in Environmental Science and is pursuing an M.A. in organizational leadership and conflict mediation.

Leadership Changes

In 2024, Kate Morse transitioned from Program Director to Executive Director, succeeding Lisa Docken. Alexis Cooper continues her role as Accounting Specialist, and Kimberlee Casavan remains as Operations Manager. Colleen Merrick continues as Climate Change Coordinator, Darcy Saiget joined as Watershed Restoration Specialist, Michelle McAfee serves as Communications Specialist, and Amy Scudder began as Partnership Administrator.