Help Me Support Otters on the Verde
A nonprofit fundraiser supporting
Friends of the Verde RiverLet's raise $250 to promote Otter Spotter and inspire people to protect otters and the Verde River.
$150
raised by 2 people
$250 goal
in 14 days left
New update
An Easier Way to Track River Health
Traditional water quality testing is expensive, time-intensive, and requires specialized equipment and training. Yes, Friends of the Verde River does this too, but we have limitations on volunteer time and equipment usage.
But otters? They do the work naturally.
When we spot an otter in the Verde River Watershed, we know the water quality meets the conditions they need to survive. That makes each sighting incredibly valuable—and a powerful, accessible way for the community to participate in protecting our river.
Learn more about Otter Spotting by visiting this link.
Hi, I’m Katherine Sirimarco, Communications Coordinator at Friends of the Verde River—and river otters have become a passion of mine.
I’m raising $250 to promote our "Otter Spotter" children’s book and Otter Spotting program to nature lovers on Facebook and Instagram. This will help more people experience these incredible animals and care for the river they depend on.
Why Otters Matter
River otters are a sign of clean, healthy water.
When otters thrive, we know the river is in good shape. After disappearing due to pollution and habitat loss, they were reintroduced to Arizona in the 1980s—and every sighting today helps us understand where the Verde River is healthy.
That’s what makes otters so powerful! They help us track water quality naturally, without expensive testing.
About "Otter Spotter" the Children's Book
"Otter Spotter" is a beautifully illustrated children’s book by beloved author Phoebe Fox. It invites families to explore, learn, and connect with wildlife in the Verde Valley. It’s also a finalist for the Arizona Forward Environmental Excellence Awards.
Help Me Reach My Goal
Your support will help grow awareness, increase otter sightings, and protect the Verde River.
If you love wildlife and clean water, I’d be grateful for your support.