The Nisqually River Council’s Mission is to create sustainability in the Nisqually Watershed for current and future generations by developing a common culture of environmental, social, and economic balance. As the longest running watershed council west of the Mississippi, the NRC brings together over 20 local, state, and federal agencies, as well as members of the community. The Nisqually Watershed encompasses all lands which drain to the Nisqually River and includes the communities of Ashford, Elbe, Mineral, Eatonville, McKenna, Roy, Yelm, Fort Lewis, and portions of Graham, Lacey, DuPont, and Rainier. Flowing 78 miles from its source at the Nisqually Glacier on Mount Rainier to its delta at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, the Nisqually is a direct link between the summit snows of Washington’s highest peak and the marine waters of Puget Sound. It is a land greatly affected by human decisions and activities.