Great Rivers,
Great Partners

In 2005, the Caterpillar Foundation invested in the Nature Conservancy to establish the Great Rivers Partnership. The program conserves and restores the world's great river systems for the benefit of those who depend upon them for life.

The partnership has helped restore thousands of miles of the Mississippi River, which is home to more than 30 million people. Great Rivers is also working with American farmers to develop more sustainable agricultural practices.

In China, more than 400 million people live in the Yangtze River region. Part of the Great Rivers program provides geographic analysis to pinpoint specific areas of the Yangtze River in need of protection and repair.

South America's Paraguay-Paraná River system covers almost one million square miles. Pollution and major alterations to the rivers' flow pose serious threats to these waters, which impact the lives of more than 100 million people. The partnership is helping to preserve hundreds of fish species and fresh drinking water for many communities in need.

The Caterpillar Foundation's leadership investment is helping the Great Rivers Partnership set new standards that will influence worldwide conservation of fresh water. The program isn't just about wildlife or development, but rather how the two can come together to preserve one of life's most essential elements.

Watch an overview of how Caterpillar and the Nature Conservancy are helping to restore and preserve vital river systems around the world.