Welcome to the

Virgin River Program

The Virgin River Program is a cooperative partnership between local, state, federal, & private entities. The goals of the Program include efforts to protect native species & their habitat while ensuring recreational & consumptive needs required for the growing human population in the Virgin River Basin.

Water for people, wildlife, & ecosystems

The Virgin River, lifeblood of southwestern Utah, shapes the dramatic scenery of the area & makes it possible for people and wildlife to survive.

The River

Virgin River winding through Zion National Park

The Virgin River is a linear oasis that brings life to an otherwise harsh desert landscape. As the river travels for over 150 miles from its headwaters above Zion National Park to Lake Mead, it brings vital resources to people and wildlife.

The Virgin River is a desert stream characterized by extreme flow fluctuations ranging from a warm trickle in the heat of summer to a cold, raging torrent during spring run-off and flash floods.

The Wildlife

A brown and red frog sitting on top of a dirt ground.

Arizona Toad
By: Rick Fridell

Despite flowing through an arid region, the Virgin River is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. This exceptional environment supports hundreds of wildlife species, including six native fish and the SouthwesternWillow Flycatcher.

Many species that rely on the river are endangered or otherwise imperiled. The Virgin River Program was established to enhance, recover, protect, and preserve native species while providing water for human needs.

The Community

Historic Downtown, St. George, Utah

The economic and intrinsic value of the Virgin River has attracted a steady stream of people from the first indigenous inhabitants and early pioneers to the current day community. People are drawn to the spectacular scenery and abundant resources of the Virgin River.

Today, the river sustains one of the fastest growing communities in the nation. The river provides drinking water, irrigation for farming and ranching, outdoor recreation opportunities, and an exceptional quality of life.