Who We Are

The Save the American River Association, (SARA) is a grass roots organization established in 1961 to spearhead the establishment of the American River Parkway (the "crown jewel" of the Sacramento County Park System) and adoption of the Parkway Plan.  Our mission is to protect and enhance the wildlife habitat, fishery, and recreational resources of the American River Parkway.  Our volunteer, non-profit group of over 600 members and Board of Directors work to ensure that the American River Parkway will survive and prosper for the benefit of future generations.

What We Do

SARA is the only local volunteer organization with the primary mission of protecting and, when necessary, fighting for the public interest in land and water issues concerning the Lower American River and the Parkway. Some of our achievements and responsibilities include:

  • Serving as advocate in cases where publicly owned Parkway property or zoning ordinances are threatened by private and commercial interests.
  • Serving as the American River advocate on the Sacramento Water Forum, a diverse group working to ensure a stable water supply through the year 2030, while protecting the resources of the river and the parkway.
  • Providing representation on many local agencies and advisory boards with an interest in the river and its assets.

    • Serving as plaintiff (with Sacramento County and the Environmental Defense Fund) in a lawsuit against East Bay Municipal District to prevent their taking American River water except under stipulated conditions. The 17-year legal battle resulted in a landmark decision setting minimum flow standards acceptable for fishery and recreational needs.

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