American Rivers’ Statement on Devastating Flooding in Texas

Contact: Amy Souers Kober, 503-708-1145, akober@americanrivers.org  

Over the weekend, flash flooding on rivers in central Texas claimed at least 82 lives, including 28 children. Ten girls and one counselor from a riverside summer camp remain missing.  

Matt Rice, Southwest Regional Director of American Rivers, made the following statement: 

“The loss of life from these floods is heartbreaking. Our thoughts are with the families, first responders, and all who have been impacted by this tragedy.  

We must do better to protect our loved ones and communities from dangerous weather and increasingly severe flooding, in Texas and nationwide. American Rivers will continue to partner with local, state, and federal officials to invest in effective infrastructure and smart policies that improve public safety. Today, we join the nation in hope that the ongoing search and rescue efforts are successful, and we grieve with the families who are experiencing unthinkable loss.” 

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American Rivers is a national conservation organization working to make every river clean and healthy for people and wildlife. We combine evidence-based solutions with enduring partnerships to safeguard the 3.5 million miles of rivers and streams that are essential to our nation’s clean drinking water, extraordinary wildlife, and strength of our communities. For more than 50 years, our staff, supporters, and partners have been driven by a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. AmericanRivers.org