Rockies

Abby Burk

Program Director, Western Rivers
About

Abby Burk brings more than a decade of leadership in river conservation, water policy, and collaborative watershed management across the Colorado River Basin. As Western Rivers Program Director at ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Rockies, she works at the intersection of science, policy, and practice—advancing stream and riparian restoration, securing sustainable water management, and building durable coalitions across local, state, and federal partners.

Abby is recognized for her ability to navigate complex water policy landscapes and translate science and on-the-ground restoration into effective policy and public engagement. She has led major efforts to advance nature-based solutions, including implementation of Colorado’s stream restoration framework (SB23-270) and the state’s dredge and fill program (Regulation 87), helping align restoration practitioners, agencies, and decision-makers. Her work emphasizes cultural change in water stewardship and reconnecting people to their rivers.

An expert in ecological management and an award-winning educator, Abby holds a B.S. in biology and an interdisciplinary master’s degree with concentrations in ecology and hydrology. She is an avid whitewater kayaker and spends as much time as possible on rivers throughout the West.

Articles by Abby Burk

The Colorado River.
Connected by Water
June 10, 2020 — Healthy rivers are key to our physical, emotional, and economic recovery.
Colorado Legislature Votes to Expand Key Instream Flow Program
March 04, 2020 — ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡â€”along with many stakeholders—advocated for the changes that are good for people, rivers, and birds.
Colorado River.
Colorado Thrives When Our Rivers Do
February 21, 2020 — Plus, an invitation to join our webinar on healthy rivers.
Rocky Mountain National Park.
Legislative Water Priorities in 2020 for Colorado’s Rivers, Birds, and People
January 23, 2020 — Policy priorities for the 2020 Colorado legislative session.
Colorado Bets on New Funding for Water Plan
November 12, 2019 — This new funding represents a down payment on the needed $100 million annual investment.
New Colorado Governor Expresses Support for Colorado Water Plan in First State of the State
January 11, 2019 — Governor Polis to make water a priority in new administration.
With a New Governor, Water Must Remain a Top Priority in Colorado
November 14, 2018 — Birds need water. So do the people of Colorado.