As growth expands outward, often times, the unfettered setting of nature gives way to an urban environment sculpted by man. Sierra Pacific, as part of the Champions of the Truckee River, however, is working hard to preserve the natural river system that winds its way through the Truckee Meadows.

This October, Sierra Pacific volunteers, in cooperation with Washoe County Parks and Recreation and Upward Bound set out, yet again, to champion the Truckee River at its adopted section, Dorostkar Park.

Past efforts at the park focused on cleaning up and removing debris left from the 1997 flood. After successfully re-establishing the natural riverbank environment, the most recent efforts focused on the Parks & Recreation goal of re-establishing the songbird population in the park by placing a number of birdhouses in the meadows area.

Unlike many urban parks, Dorostkar is not groomed and manicured, but is allowed to grow in the pattern of nature. In addition to being aesthetically enjoyable for park visitors, such an environment is beneficial to area wildlife.

"As urban wildlife continues to feel the pressures of encroaching development, areas like Dorostkar Park are important ecosystems that allow wildlife to thrive," commented Sierra Pacific environmental scientist, Shauna Adams.

Sierra Pacific realizes that efforts to protect and maintain the Truckee River and its surrounding environments must remain continuous, for the value of the Truckee River is far reaching.

"By working to protect the Truckee, we are working to protect an important community resource," explained Adams. "The Truckee River acts as a valuable water source, the center of a natural ecosystem, a refuge for wildlife and people alike, as well as a potentially wonderful economic springboard for downtown Reno."

As Champions of the Truckee continues its mission to protect and maintain the Truckee River, the successes witnessed prove that the legacy of John Champion, a Truckee River ambassador, lives on.