Carly Schmidt, originally hailing from St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, is a dedicated advocate for water protection currently based in Denver, Colorado, on the traditional lands of the Arapaho, Ute, and Cheyenne peoples. As the Membership & Communications Director at River Network since 2018, Carly plays a pivotal role in connecting passionate individuals to the national movement for healthy rivers and clean water.
In her multifaceted position, Carly spearheads River Network’s membership program, nurturing a community of supporters committed to the organization’s mission. She is also instrumental in the planning and execution of the annual River Rally conference, a key event that convenes water advocates from across the nation. Furthermore, Carly co-hosts the engaging “At the Water Table” podcast, facilitating important conversations around water issues and solutions. Through these diverse initiatives, she effectively fosters learning and collaboration within the network, sharing vital news and impactful stories.
Before joining River Network, Carly honed her skills in communication and conservation through various roles. She developed content for Project WILD, an initiative of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies, managed operations and communications at Austin Wildlife Rescue, and directed a STEM education program. Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Tulsa, where she also captained the women’s rowing team, and a Master of Science in Environmental Sciences & Policy from Northern Arizona University.
Carly’s commitment to water advocacy is deeply rooted in her personal experiences. Growing up rowing and sailing on Lake Ontario instilled in her a profound appreciation for aquatic environments. She witnessed firsthand the varying health conditions of different water bodies, sparking a desire to move beyond simple appreciation and actively contribute to freshwater protection. This drive is fueled by continuous learning and inspiration from the dedicated individuals and communities working tirelessly to safeguard water resources for both people and nature.
For Carly, respect is a core value that guides her work at River Network. She emphasizes the importance of decentralized leadership and actively seeks feedback from partners and staff. This approach underscores her belief that the water movement is powered by diverse individuals, each bringing unique perspectives and talents to the table. By fostering open communication and collaboration, Carly contributes to a more inclusive and impactful movement.
Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are also central to Carly’s approach. She recognizes that ensuring clean, safe, and affordable water for all is intrinsically linked to addressing environmental injustice. Carly believes that a truly effective movement must amplify the voices of those directly affected by water challenges. By embracing a wide range of perspectives and experiences, she strives to build a more powerful and equitable movement for water protection.
Carly Schmidt’s dedication and expertise make her an invaluable asset to River Network and the broader water advocacy community. Her leadership in membership engagement, communications, and network development is essential in driving positive change for rivers and communities across the nation.
