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FLC alumna Rica Fulton returns to lead Four Corners Water Center
Southwest Colorado water advocate brings regional expertise in river conservation, policy and collaboration to advance water education, research and partnerships at Fort Lewis College.
Southwest Colorado water advocate brings regional expertise in river conservation, policy and collaboration to advance water education, research and partnerships at Fort Lewis College
Fort Lewis College has appointed Rica Fulton (Environmental Studies, ’14) as director of the Four Corners Water Center, effective October 26. Fulton grew up in Southwest Colorado and has spent more than a decade working in river conservation, water policy, and regional collaboration.
Fulton most recently served as advocacy and stewardship director for Dolores River Boating Advocates, where she coordinated a coalition of more than 15 nongovernmental organizations working to secure permanent protections for the Dolores River Canyons. She also worked with local partners to improve the health of the lower Dolores River and helped secure funding for conservation efforts.
“I am thrilled to return to Fort Lewis as Director of the Four Corners Water Center after over a decade of working in water in the region,” Fulton said. “My passion for rivers began here as a student, and I can't wait to connect students with local organizations and water projects, spark critical community conversations around water at FLC, and bring in resources to fuel creative solutions and foster the next generation of water leaders.”
Before joining Dolores River Boating Advocates, Fulton served as restoration coordinator for RiversEdge West, leading partnerships focused on restoring lands along the Dolores and Colorado rivers. Her experience also includes serving as program director for the Upper Green River Network/Colorado Riverkeeper and as a graduate teaching assistant in geography and natural resources courses at the University of Wyoming.
Fulton earned her bachelor’s degree from FLC in 2014 and a master’s degree in geography and environment and natural resources from the University of Wyoming in 2019. Her graduate research examined how collaborative efforts can influence reservoir management in the Colorado River Basin, focusing on the Dolores River.
“Fulton knows this region, understands its water challenges, and has experience bringing people together to address them,” said Provost Mario Martinez. “Her connections to FLC and our community will help the Four Corners Water Center turn research, education, and regional partnerships into practical solutions for our watersheds and the communities that depend on them.”
Established in 2019, the Four Corners Water Center supports water education, research, and professional development for students and engages the community in regional water issues.