Adapting Together: Lessons from the Dolores River Restoration Partnership (DRRP)

Adapting Together: Lessons from the Dolores River Restoration Partnership (DRRP) 

Melissa Neubaum, Restoration Coordinator, RiversEdge West 

For nearly two decades, the Dolores River Restoration Partnership (DRRP) has worked collaboratively to remove invasive phreatophytes and restore riparian ecosystems across the Dolores River watershed in western Colorado and eastern Utah. As environmental, social, and funding conditions have shifted, the partnership has adapted to sustain long-term ecological investments and maintain continuity. 

This presentation explores how the DRRP has navigated changes in partner composition, funding sources, and restoration goals while responding to climate challenges such as drought and altered flows. Flexibility, collaboration, clear communication, and a values-driven approach have allowed the partnership to persist and achieve meaningful progress. 

By examining the DRRP’s evolution, we aim to provide practical insights into sustaining momentum and learning from successes and setbacks. More importantly, we hope this presentation sparks dialogue and conversation about designing riparian restoration projects that are resilient, adaptive, and capable of delivering lasting ecological and social benefits in a changing landscape.