History - Blue River Foundation of Oklahoma

History

Who We Are

In the spring of 2018, a group of concerned landowners along the iconic upper Blue River banded together to call attention to the impacts of a proposed industry project near the banks of the river that would forever alter the natural balance of this free flowing, spring-fed, and undammed jewel in southern Oklahoma.

While our diverse cultural group had a long tenure of land stewardship along the river, with some family histories dating to the 19th century, we were inexperienced in natural resource advocacy.

From that grassroots beginning, we formed a “Section 501(c)(3)” nonprofit organization, educated ourselves, and rallied other concerned stakeholders to successfully turn back the proposed project.

Our goal: to protect the Blue River for future generations.

2019 Visionary Conservation Partnership Award

This singular event opened our eyes to the vulnerability of Blue River, whose upper part is reminiscent of a Rocky Mountain stream found in western states, and the five hundred square mile Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer from which it emanates. From here, our group’s Mission was forged, to ensure a sustainable Blue River Watershed and Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer for the use and enjoyment of all generations.

In doing so, we engage with like-minded stakeholders in a science-based approach to stewardship, envisioning the same pristine water quality and quantity that our ancestors saw in this truly unique Oklahoma treasure that sustains so many, including two Tribal Nations, along its 132-mile course from the headwaters near Roff to its mouth on the Red River near Bokchito.

If you have ever hoisted a glistening rainbow trout over the cool Blue River waters, or paddled its unique path, made use of it for your business, honored it for its cultural significance, drank from municipal suppliers along its course, or simply know of its uniqueness, then please join us in this important journey of sustainability for an irreplaceable Oklahoma natural resource.