The preservation of the Grand Canyon’s irreplaceable features hinges largely upon conservation programs augmented by professional outfitters and open-air enthusiasts alike. In order to defend the picturesque beauty as well as archaeological and geological features of the natural treasure for upcoming generations to enjoy, it is incumbent upon all guests and Grand Canyon rafting fans to be good custodians of the river and land. A number of funds, associations and government-sponsored conservation programs make it their mission to ensure continued public access to the Grand Canyon while preserving the beauty and integrity of the natural space.

Colorado River rafting trips are among the most awe-inspiring and gratifying on the planet. The mixture of challenging rapids and scenery make for the experience of a lifetime. However, to guard against the damage of overuse, private rafting permits are limited annually. Professionally-guided river expeditions offer great flexibility, though they are limited in availability. On these expeditions, guides inform rafters about the park, its natural history and ancient significance. Visitors also learn about the influence humans have on the land and get to practice stewardship first hand.

When preparing for a white water rafting trip in the Grand Canyon, one ought to opt for an outfitter belonging to one of several preservation organizations. Government sponsored or privately funded, these organizations are important in helping to maintain this area. Below are just a few of the many conservation programs working jointly to preserve this incredible natural wonder of the world:

•    Vanishing Treasures Program – Established by Congress in 1998, this government-funded program grants significant resources and funds used to preserve both early and historic sites of architectural significance from the destructive effects of erosion, vandalism, burrowing rodent damage, and increasing visitation effects.

•    Leave No Trace Organization – Billing itself as an educational and ethical program, they assist outdoorsy fans to become more aware of the impact things like paraphernalia, camp site set-up, waste removal and even noise can have on the ecosystem they love. Rafting outfitters always aim to make sure that the presence of the groups they lead cannot be detected once they have gone.

•    Grand Canyon River Runners Association – Encouraging the highest ideals of conservation and custodial care, this association aims to keep the park open to the public by maintaining an sufficient number of high-quality professional river services.

•    Grand Canyon Conservation Fund – This non-profit organization is supported fully by river trip passengers. 100% of all gifts go directly to protecting and conserving the Grand Canyon and providing access to those who would not otherwise have the opportunity to share in the Grand Canyon river activities.

In addition to association with a conservation group, Grand Canyon rafting outfitters should demonstrate sound ecological practices. This consists of proper disposal of trash and human waste, the use of eco-friendly cleaning products and leaving fragile ecosystems undisturbed. Most companies are very careful, and work hard to ensure they leave everything as good as they found it, or better.

Whether from erosion, graffiti, theft, trash or the removal of collectibles, historical landmarks, archaeological areas of significance, and geological formations are vulnerable to destruction. In addition, there are varieties of both plant life and fauna that are found no-where else in the world.

The Grand Canyon is a national and international treasure that future generations deserve to see and enjoy. Lacking the involvement of different preservation activities, carelessness and overuse could eventually damage the unspoiled nature of the gorge as well as the Colorado Waterway. Through the combined efforts of conservation-minded, skilled river rafting outfitters and environmentally-conscious visitors, the stewardship of the canyon becomes a collective practice that benefits everybody, both in the present day and in the years to come. It would be a tragedy if upcoming generations were not able to benefit from a Grand Canyon white water rafting expedition due to overuse and lack of conservation efforts now.