Background & History

The Watershed Research & Education Program (WREP) at Northern Arizona University (NAU) had its genesis in 2000 in the form of a generous gift to NAU, as part of the New Century Capital Campaign, from the Salt River Project (SRP). 

For the first four years of its life, the program, initiallly known as the Verde Watershed Research and Education Program (VWREP) was focused on the 5,500 square-mile Verde River watershed, which encompasses a unique and spectacular area in central Arizona, and covers parts of Yavapai, Coconino, and Gila Counties. The Verde River watershed contains the highest mountains in Arizona, the Mogollon Rim, deeply incised canyons, and broad valleys.

In the summer of 2004, the Verde Watershed Research & Education Program dropped the Verde from its name and expanded its focus to include all north-central Arizona watersheds.  However, the program continues to maintain a strong involvement in the Verde River Watershed, as well as in the Little Colorado River, and other watersheds.   Funding in support of the WREP for 2004-2009  was once again provided by a generous gift from SRP.

The program has and continues to benefit from financial underwriting of its events by a variety of agencies and organizations, including the USDA Forest Service; Central Arizona Project; US Bureau of Reclamation; Yavapai County and others - please see the acknowledgements given for each specific activity.

Initial leadership was provided by Abe Springer and Charlie Schlinger.  Abe stepped down after June of 2001 and David Ostergren co-directed the program through June of 2005.  Since then, the program has been led by Charlie Schlinger.