A Reverence for Rivers

Imagining an Ethic for Running Waters

By: Kurt D. Fausch

Narrated by: Kurt D. Fausch

Using engaging storytelling, A Reverence for Rivers draws listeners into the ethical dilemmas facing rivers worldwide, through stories about seven rivers Fausch came to know well. From the Salmon River, Oregon to the Sarufutsu River, Japan, he addresses threats like increasing water demands, habitat fragmentation, overfishing, and climate change.

Through narratives that translate science into language accessible to a broad audience, Fausch weaves together deep Indigenous histories and thoughtful observations of the natural world, reminding us that our connections to rivers flow from the stories we carry about our relationships with and responsibilities to these rivers. A Reverence for Rivers speaks to both the mind and heart, offering perspectives for creating an ethic of care for the running waters that feed not only our bodies but also our souls.

©2025 Kurt D. Fausch (P)2026 Kurt D. Fausch

great ecology audiobook

This is a great freshwater ecology audiobook, covering both rivers and lakes. It is well narrated and also includes a variety of tribal perspectives. This is a good introduction to freshwater ecology, that are also covers conservation and restoration issues.

In my view, I would have two aspects of the book that could be improved and that are probably more a matter of personal taste and opinion. (1) The book comes is narrated from a personal perspective and includes mentions of the author's friends and family and his connection to ecology when growing up. I would prefer a drier and more objective view without the personal touch, but I realize that this is very common in North American books/audiobooks/movies/videos and media from Germany favor a more matter of fact tone where less emotions are invoked. Again, probably personal preference. (2) While tribal perspectives are greatly respected in this book, fish hatcheries are criticized the only time they are mentioned. While they are not without effects on natural fish stocks, it has to be said that the tribes in Washington State and Oregon are very much in favor of fish (salmon and steelhead) hatcheries as they allow the harvest of fish and allow the tribes to exert their treaty rights. Without fish hatcheries, this would not be possible, since natural salmon stocks are very endangered in Washington State. I would appreciate a more nuanced discussion of fish hatcheries, since they are vital for tribal treaty rights and the survival of tribal communities.

Having said all of this, my suggestions for improvements are very minor and I can highly recommend this audiobook.

Masterful storytelling on our running waters

A Reverence for Rivers is part travel literature, part thoughtful meditation, and part scientific discovery--opening the reader to a world of river systems and human relationships to instill both wonder and reverence for river ecology. A Reverence for Rivers is a beautifully written companion to Fausch's award winning For the Love of Rivers: A Scientist's Journey--love and reverence leading to thoughtful reflection on an ethic for our running waters.