July 23, 2026 | The Colorado River Basin is facing one of the driest summers on record. Snow that came too little, too late—or not at all—has depleted water supplies heading into the dry season. Throughout the West, communities are grappling with water shortages, wildfire risk and the growing impacts of a hotter, drier climate.

In a summer like this, the work doesn’t change—but the urgency does. Many of the solutions are already in motion, shaped by years of collaboration across the basin.

Across the Western U.S., TNC staff and partners are stepping up efforts to protect our forests, conserve water and help balance water needs for the communities, businesses and wildlife that need it most.

WASHINGTON D.C.— On May 13, leaders from across the country will gather in Washington, D.C. for the Friends of National Service Awards, an annual, bipartisan celebration hosted by Voices for National Service. At this year’s ceremony, April Elkins-Badtke, Executive Director of Conservation Legacy’s Stewards Individual Placements program, will be honored as the National Service Advocate of the Year. The award recognizes exemplary determination, creativity, and results in building support for AmeriCorps among our nation’s leaders.