For the first time in over a century, the Klamath River is running free from Keno, Oregon, all the way to the Pacific Ocean. With the recent removal of four major dams—Iron Gate, Copco 1 and 2, and J.C. Boyle—the river is beginning a powerful process of natural restoration.
This revival marks more than just an environmental milestone. Soon, a group of Indigenous youth from the Klamath River basin will be among the first to paddle the newly restored section—reclaiming both water and heritage.
These students are part of the Paddle Tribal Waters Academy, a collaborative project between Rios to Rivers and World Class Academy, with support from NRS and other partners. The program combines whitewater kayaking education with cultural reconnection, empowering young people to lead from the bow.
“The first people to descend down the undammed [Klamath] River will be the kids that did the Paddle Tribal Waters program!”
– Keeya Wiki, PTW student
With salmon already making their way back upstream and nature reclaiming space, this journey marks a historic turning point in the relationship between people and river.
Learn more
🔗 Paddle Tribal Waters – Rios to Rivers
🔗 Support dam removal – American Rivers
📸 Follow the journey on Instagram