Shelby Cline
Originally from Marietta, Georgia, Shelby Cline (they/them) now lives and works in Denver, Colorado, on Arapaho, Ute, and Cheyenne lands.
Shelby joined River Network in 2023 as the Drinking Water Program Associate, supporting the team on topics related to drinking water affordability, quality, infrastructure, and funding. They are a standing member of River Network’s Policy Team, working to identify key advocacy topics related to the Drinking Water program area and other crossover opportunities.
Shelby at the top of Mount Mitchell.
Shelby has a keen interest in facilitating engaging meetings for the network and building out River Network’s growing catalog of online learning series. Shelby attended Davidson College in North Carolina and received a B.A. in Environmental Studies, and since then, has completed the Member Advocacy Program with Carolina Farm Stewardship Association along with several other trainings related to advocacy and communications work. Previously, they collaborated with state and local nonprofit organizations to lead grassroots organizing efforts for safe drinking water, farmworker’s rights, and food system sustainability. Outside of work, Shelby can be found wandering waterside trails and discovering new restaurants to try.
Which River Network value most speaks to you?
The value of inclusion really resonates with me. Everyone deserves a seat at the table, so we need to value different perspectives and opinions, promote equity and justice, and create an intentional space for people to be a part of. It’s important to me to work for an organization that recognizes this need for inclusion both internally and externally. Internally it creates a stronger, more resilient staff that feels accepted and heard. Externally it allows for better partnerships based on mutual respect. We can do so much more when we’re able to work together.
What called you to work in water?
As a kid I was obsessed with all things water. I wanted to be a water bender, or a mermaid, or an Olympic swimmer. While none of those dreams came true, I’ve stayed in close connection with the water my whole life. Whether it was exploring the creek behind my house when I was little, or rowing down the river in a regatta as a college student, I keep finding myself making core memories in these outdoor, aquatic spaces. I feel lucky to be able to work to help conserve these places for future generations, so that other people can experience the same joy I have spending time around water.
If you didn’t work in water or conservation, what would you be doing?
I would probably be in tech. Specifically, I would want to build computers or be a web designer. It’s a lot of fun creating something from scratch and seeing it turn on or work the way you wanted it to. But it could still be a hobby!
How do you recharge outside of work?
I enjoy taking time to be outside and enjoy nature. Sometimes that means going for a run, taking a walk, or even rollerblading! I also love being with friends and family.
Backpacking in South Mountains State Park, NC.
