On April 11, Resource Central was honored to co-present the sold-out Boulder International Film Festival premiere of The River, a powerful documentary that tells the stories of individuals whose lives are shaped by the Colorado River. There was an incredible response from the community for the film, and an additional showing was added after the first showing sold out.
Following the film, attendees packed the room for a standing-room-only panel discussion moderated by Colorado Public Radio Climate and Environment Reporter Ishan Thakore. The conversation featured Director Mara Tasker; Resource Central President & CEO Neal Lurie; Western Resource Advocates Regional Policy Director John Berggren; and eight of the film’s featured subjects: Chyenne Klemme, Ronnie Leimgruber, Nolan Stevens, Lorelei Cloud, Dale Larkin, Derrill Larkin, and Chantel Dooley. Together, they shared personal perspectives on the Colorado River’s future, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovative water management, and the meaningful role individuals can play in protecting this vital resource.
Outside the theater, at the BIFF C2A Colorado River Expo, our team had the pleasure of connecting with attendees and the community. Some stopped by as longtime supporters to share how our programs have helped them save water over the years. Others came directly from the film looking for ways to make a difference in their own homes and communities. The conversations were a powerful reminder that while the challenges facing our water supply are significant, so is the community’s willingness to take action.
Whether it was discussing lawn replacement, waterwise Garden In A Box kits, free sprinkler evaluations, or simple ways to reduce outdoor water use, one message stood out throughout the evening: every drop saved matters.
Thank you to the Boulder International Film Festival, the filmmakers, our fellow co-presenters, the panelists, and everyone who attended for making this event such a meaningful celebration of conservation and community. We’re grateful to have been part of a conversation that moved beyond awareness and toward action.
If The River left you inspired to help protect Colorado’s most precious resource, we’re here to help. Explore our water-saving programs and learn how you can make an impact at ResourceCentral.org/water.
