Join Us at the 2024 Paddle Sports Show for an Inspiring Talk by Marieke Vogt
The Free Rivers Fund, a registered non-profit organisation, will be featured at this year’s Paddle Sports Show conference and talk program. Known for supplying grants to NGOs fighting to keep our rivers flowing free, the Free Rivers Fund plays a crucial role in supporting conservation actions and campaigns that have the greatest impact.
Marieke Vogt, representing Free Rivers Fund, will be giving a presentation followed by a debate on September 25th at 1 PM. Ahead of the event, Marieke sat down with us to discuss her message for the paddle sports community and share insights into the mission of Free Rivers Fund.
Paddle Sports Show: Marieke, you are coming to the Paddle Sports Show this year. What is the main message you will send across to the audience?
Marieke Vogt: As kayakers, we are closer to rivers than most other people. We are often the first—and sometimes the only ones—to notice when they are threatened or already in a bad state. We love them; our sport depends on them, so we need to take responsibility and defend our rivers.
“Our goal remains to give grassroots river conservation projects the financial support they need to get started.”
Paddle Sports Show: What exactly is the Free Rivers Fund all about? Could you tell us a little bit about the background and history of the association?
Marieke Vogt: The Free Rivers Fund was founded by three activist groups—kayakers defending their home rivers. They had firsthand experience with the difficulties of fighting for river conservation. Often, the main challenge is simply getting the funds to support a campaign. So, in 2017, they launched the Free Rivers Fund to make it easier for others to start their conservation efforts. Everyone can apply for funding, even small groups or individuals. Our goal remains to give grassroots river conservation projects the financial support they need to get started. We also aim to educate people about the threats rivers face and encourage more kayakers to take action by either starting their own project or joining an existing one.
Paddle Sports Show: How do you finance the grants you distribute?
Marieke Vogt: We collect donations, primarily from the kayak community. Partnerships with companies—manufacturers, dealers, kayak schools—are crucial. At least one-third of our funds come from private donations or from fundraisers organised by clubs or events.
Paddle Sports Show: How can the paddle sports industry help even further?
Marieke Vogt: The best way the industry can help is by partnering with us. When manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and schools show their engagement and contribute financially, it increases the number of projects we can support. It’s a win-win: companies benefit from associating their brand with a vital cause, and our rivers gain much-needed protection.
“Our grantees are typically local groups deeply connected to their rivers. They are highly committed and understand exactly what needs to be done to protect their home rivers. “
Paddle Sports Show: Do you feel your work makes a difference?
Marieke Vogt: Definitely. Every year we receive more applications from river defenders worldwide. Our grantees are typically local groups deeply connected to their rivers. They are highly committed and understand exactly what needs to be done to protect their home rivers. With relatively small amounts of funding, they achieve impressive results. We are continually amazed by their success and proud to support them.
Come and meet Marieke Vogt and the Free RIver Team, at the 2024 Paddle Sports Show.
Marieke will be speaking on September 25th at 1 PM.
For more information about the Paddle Sports Show 2024 conference program, visit: www.thepaddlesportshow.com/conferences-talks-program
Learn more about the Free Rivers Fund at: www.freerivers.org
