Wilderness River Adventures (WRA) is a trailblazer in the realm of ecotourism, encapsulating three core principles that define their mission: environmental sustainability, conservation efforts, and responsible resource management. With an unwavering commitment to safeguarding our planet, WRA sets sail on a transformative journey, intertwining thrilling experiences with a profound dedication to preserving the pristine wilderness they navigate.
Environmental Sustainability
WRA’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in all aspects of their operations. Their innovative approach includes the upgrade to longer, more efficient, boats. Prior to upgrading to 37-foot boats, they used 26-foot boats, this change reduced carbon emissions and fuel consumption by 13%. This seemingly simple yet profound adaptation showcases the company’s commitment to minimizing their ecological footprint. Moreover, WRA’s decision to offer lemonade and water in recyclable containers highlights their conscientious approach to reducing single-use plastic waste.
Furthermore, their partnership with local company Page Steel enables them to recycle steel and aluminum materials, ensuring that valuable resources find new life rather than polluting our planet. By bringing recycling containers on their river excursions, WRA actively encourages their guests to participate in preserving the environment.
Conservation Efforts
WRA goes above and beyond to safeguard the pristine wilderness they explore. At the heart of their conservation efforts lies a firm commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the river sites they visit. A testament to their responsible resources management, WRA takes a thoughtful approach even during mealtimes on their river trips, ensuring to place a mat under their table to catch crumbs. This mindful practice significantly reduces their human impact at the sites they visit, ultimately benefiting future trips by minimizing the presence of ants and preserving the delicate ecosystem for generations to come.
In addition, WRA takes pride in educating their guests about the detrimental impact of invasive plant species. After a day on the river, the guides will walk guests of all ages around camp and show them the invasive vegetation and the impact that it has had on the environment. Most camps have Russian Thistle, Tamarisk Trees and Jointed Goat grass that can be seen and removed by trained personal. By instilling a sense of environmental stewardship, guests are inspired to camp only where vegetation is absent, preserving the integrity of natural habitats. Such an approach underscores WRA’s proactive approach to conservation, elevating the standard for sustainable tourism.
Responsible Resource Management
Transportation to and from the river at the start and end of an adventure is an important part of WRA’s operations, this is why they have a fleet of fuel-efficient buses. Equipped with highly efficient Volvo engines, their buses reduce as much carbon emissions as possible while also being able to run in the scorching Arizona summer heat. By partnering with other companies in the rafting community, WRA strives to further optimize bus efficiency, creating a ripple effect of positive change within the community.
The company also asks guests to bring their own reusable water bottles when embarking on one of their river trips. This initiative not only reduces the amount of supplies they must take on their trip, but also reduces the plastic waste generated by the trip.
