To inspire and empower our community to connect with and care for the natural environment
Photo Credit: William Helms
Protecting the Arkansas River Valley
About GARNA
The Greater Arkansas River Nature Association (GARNA) is an environmental nonprofit organization founded in 1996 as a cooperative association for the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area for education and stewardship. GARNA works with communities of the upper Arkansas River valley to foster the stewardship of the region’s natural environment and the resilience of our communities.
GARNA’s coverage area is in the heart of the Rocky Mountains of south-central Colorado, spanning the 143-mile section of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area State Park, jointly managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Bureau of Land Management. This spectacular region includes the upper Arkansas River watershed and some of the highest peaks and most scenic lands in the United States. GARNA’s work helps safeguard these public lands through the preservation of values and the development of public participation opportunities that help community members understand, appreciate and give back to their natural environment.
GARNA subscribes to a generational approach — that investments in learning and opportunities for public participation build on themselves and help ensure the long-term health of our public lands and waters.
Mission Statement
GARNA connects people with nature through inclusive educational programs, community engagement, and effective stewardship initiatives. We serve diverse residents, visitors, youth, and families across the Upper Arkansas River Valley, promoting environmental awareness, responsibility, and sustainable practices. Through strong partnerships and an inclusive culture, we empower volunteers, staff, and community members to enhance public engagement, celebrate our heritage, and care for the natural environment.
Leadership
GARNA’s Board of Directors include regional experts with a wide range of professional skills and environmental and community interests. The collective focus is aimed at maximizing stewardship and community participation opportunities, coupled with innovative fundraising approaches and the highest standards of fiscal responsibility and transparency.
Program Milestones
Measuring GARNA's Impact
For more information on our most recently reported program milestones, view the Annual Report.
Financial Transparency
As a 501c3, GARNA relies on grants and donations to fund the majority of our programs. We aim for 80% of programming to be free for the community and therefore a majority of our expenses are directly related to offering quality programs. As a tax-exempt non-profit, we file a 990 with the IRS each year. See below for recent years where you can review grants we've received, assets and other financial information. (note: we typically file in November).
