About Us

Introduction

The Upper White River Basin Foundation (the Foundation) is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote water quality in the upper White River watershed through bi-state collaboration on research, education, public policy and action projects. The focus of the Foundation is on the four major impoundments on the upper White River: Beaver, Table Rock, Taneycomo and Bull Shoals Lakes and the rivers and streams which drain into these impoundments.

The Foundation works with federal, state and local government agencies and interested citizen groups as an advocate for clean water projects, as a catalyst to create and implement projects to improve water quality and as a community educator on the causes and impact of reduced water quality.

Establishment of the Foundation

Formally incorporated in late 2001, the Foundation’s origins are much earlier in the experience and commitment of key individuals whose roots run deep in the Ozarks region. Ben and Todd Parnell, father and son, are natives of Branson and have had a love for the Ozarks and its waters all their lives. Their concerns about the pressures of development and the need to preserve the clarity, purity and utility of the water prompted them to begin a conversation with others of like mind. John L. Morris, Peter Herschend, Leon Combs, Joe White, John Moore, Martin MacDonald, the late John Lewis and other joined in supporting the creation of a water quality organization whose focus uniquely encompassed a watershed lying in two states, Arkansas and Missouri.

Since operation began the Foundation has worked to carry out its mission through advocacy on behalf of public policy impacting the basin watershed, the implementation of research and action projects and communication and coordination of efforts involving interested groups and individuals in both states. A board of trustees consisting of many of the founders oversees the direction and operation of the organization.

Work Priorities

In order to gain an effective edge on projects and to maximize available resources, the Foundation sets priorities and goals which set the direction and pace of work produced by the organization.

1. Monitor and report on water quality in the basin.
2. Serve as an advocate on policy issues which affect water quality and watershed through regulatory and legislative means.
3. Emphasize public information, education, promotion and communication about water quality issues.
4. Support and encourage allied watershed groups working for common purposes.