Light kisses the top cliffs in the Grand Canyon

Jen Pelz

Water Advocacy Director

Jen is a lover of desert landscapes and the water and people that bring them to life. She grew up in New Mexico hiking, fishing, and falling into many rivers on outings with her dad. Jen earned a B.A. in biology at the University of Northern Colorado and a J.D. in environmental and natural resource law at the University of Oregon. She has two decades of experience advocating to safeguard flowing rivers and clean water for people and the environment. Prior to joining the Trust, her efforts focused on restoring flows to the iconic Rio Grande in Colorado and New Mexico. When not on a river, she can often be found gardening, running, and exploring with her partner and two daughters.

Respect one another, support one another, bring your gift to the world and receive the gifts of others, and there will be enough for all.

— Robin Wall Kimmerer

Inspirational books

  • Pieces of White Shell by Terry Tempest Williams
  • World of Wonders by Aimee Nezhukumatathil
  • The Water Knife by Paolo Bacigalupi
  • The Overstory by Richard Powers

Little-known facts

  • Amateur photographer of rivers, mostly
  • Keeper of chickens with literary names
  • Defiant wearer of Chaco sandals to court
  • Gardener of large scarlet runner beans
  • Meditative knitter of unfinished work

Favorite river critters

  • Humpback chub
  • Rio Grande silvery minnow
  • Yellow-billed cuckoo
  • Sandhill crane
  • River otter
  • Beaver

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