A River Out of Time

“We pray for the rains to come, for the snow to fall, for moisture in the earth. Not just for the Hopi, but for everybody. For every living thing that’s out there.” – Howard Dennis, Hopi Elder

The Green and Colorado river systems form the backbone of the American West. Once spanning a 1,450-mile journey from the Rocky Mountains to the Gulf of California, today, none of the sediment-rich water reaches the Pacific Ocean. Instead, its water lies stymied in reservoirs and siphoned off to feed and nurture 40 million people from Salt Lake to Los Angeles.

One hundred and fifty years after John Wesley Powell’s historic descent of the Green and Colorado rivers, an unlikely crew of scientists, artists, educators, and river lovers repeated his journey on a trip that was simultaneously a celebration of modern river life and a critical look at how we interpret the Colorado River’s history and use its waters.

As the demand we place on the water of the Colorado continues to exceed its supply, we are forced to face uncomfortable truths about decisions made in our past. And we are reminded that the way we think about water—and all those dependent upon it—needs to shift if we want things to change for our future.

“Water is a life force for all of us. It has a spiritual and physical being to it that deserves respect. It’s not something that you take for granted.” – Lyle Balenquah, Hopi archaeologist

[benjamin_Kraushaar]

We are so stoked to finally share this film with the world!

[annegribb]

I knew there was a camera crew but, I had no idea this film was even in existence. My husband, BILL Gribbb, who spoke os JWPowell was a god, was part of this expidition. He was very sick at this time..and I was very concerned about him taking this trip. Tom and crew took good care. I had no idea this film was dedicated to him. He would be so humbled. I am so proud. Thank you, Tom Minckley, for your kind gesture.

[angieknoll]

Disappointed in what I had hoped would be a masterful film about one of our greatest resources and the unique path it travels through the southwest. This team missed a golden opportunity by stopping the journey at the end of the Grand Canyon, where the real story begins. The devastation of drought is compounded by alfalfa farming in the lower Colorado River basin, with 20% of those crops shipped overseas. Human consumption is concerning as we continue building cities in the arid southwest, but the most significant threat is antiquated farming practices that seem to go unchecked. Seeing the mighty Colorado river reduced to a trickle as it makes its way into the Gulf of California would be an eye-opener to many. This film should have provided the following:
A call to action.
Ideas for improvements.
Models of the future.
Historical background about how the river filled these reservoirs in the first place.
Sadly this seemed like a summer camp trip for educators and bureaucrats with some grant money to spend.

[brendenphillips]

Re-entry post expedition can be the most enduring chapter of the entire experience. Communicating what you just lived to others often falls on def ears. This was a magnificent capture of what a journey like this can mean. More people to the river is all that stands in the way.

[r.menzel]

An exceptional movie! Whether or not you've gone river rafting on the Colorado River this group of people will tell the story and the stories what this river system has to offer recreationally, spiritually and environmentally. A must see for anybody looking for a direction on their own journey.

[mojo.adventures]

Great adventure and excellent video, thank you for sharing. Always interesting to hear from the local Hopi and Navajo how these changes have really affected them over time. We really need to evaluate the next 100 years before moving forward with a new river contract in 2026. Securing the Navajo their promised share of all this water being wasted for profit downstream is critical after all this time and what Glen Canyon Dam did to the area.

[kayakkootenaybc]

Thats just about the best paddle movie I ever seen

[Steeven.Boucher]

wow...best film ive seen in a while !!! soundtrack is perfect too ! good work

[laurierugenstein]

Thank you for sharing this important film. I especially thank you for sharing the perspective of some of the Indigenous people whose ancestral land this is.

[tomfarnsworth]

Stunning, amazing, epic video. My jealousy of your experience is high, but sharing it is truly amazing. Thank you!

[Barret-paddles]

Off the charts amazing and indeed magical! Thank you for sharing your journey and work. Your insights give us all much to think about especially the work that needs to be done TOGETHER! I have always wanted to do a trip like this, and hopefully I will get that chance. Bravo to you all 💜
!

[juanaction]

Very excellent! Thank you. Beautiful and informative without preaching too much. Fantastic imagery.

[kcsanville]

Now Wanna see what happens beyond Pearce’s Ferry 1:03:39

[rickyroberts]

Very informative and eye opening. It is sad what we do in the name of progress. We could learn a lot from Native Americans, they have been part of this land much longer than of the rest of us and believe the land is sacred. Something we all should do.

[jeremiahbishopswheelhouse]

A magical visual story, not just an epic trip but a tale with many threads. Stories of the people who share life with the river. This thoughtful and entertaining film really puts context to the headlines. . If anything this gives hope that thru great reverence we may as people find ways to protect something so precious.

[harmonyhorseworks]

I live near the Mountain Laying Down on Its Side, the Kaibab, and the river that runs through it. Like the Native Americans who emerged from the canyon, I was reborn here. White woman, native soul, they say, is the trance that befalls some of us. The Colorado River reminds us that we are all one tribe held together by Mother Earth, all colors, one soul. Thank you for creating this magical mystery tour.

[francoutah]

Thank you to all who made this happen! I'm so grateful for your respect to the native people who came before.
I was a guide in Cataract all through the 90's until 9/11 happened and you river people make me proud. I'm inspired to be more engaged with these issues and reconnect with my river family.
"Rig to flip."

[socalcc]

Amazing video and great job. What is the song from 47:00-48:00?

[jordanwinters]

Such an incredible film, amazing work guys!!! You can feel the heart and soul that went into this!

[deniseladavis]

Eyes wide open beautiful filmaking...may it all work out for the river and conservation activists ❣️