Rivers of Recovery (RoR) is pleased to announce a collaboration with Cornell University’s Department of Natural Resources (WWRx Tidball Lab) to expand our research on fly fishing as an effective treatment for PTS, mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), depression and anxiety for Veterans.

While fly fishing’s positive effects on Veteran recovery is widely supported by personal testimony, RoR believes it’s important to use scientific research to document and measure how fly fishing affects combat Veterans, both physically and emotionally. This new collaboration with Cornell University’s Department of Natural Resources (WWRx Tidball Lab) will enable RoR to continue and expand our research on Veteran recovery by:

  • Sharing research results in scientific publications
  • Leveraging previous research
  • Conducting new research to better understand the persistence of therapeutic effects

“We see the impact of our programs on every trip with every Vet,” said Amy V. Simon, Executive Director of Rivers of Recovery. “This research collaboration will continue our efforts to scientifically support fly fishing as an effective therapeutic technique for combat Veterans. Our long-term goal is to take a leadership role in addressing the needs of our nation’s wounded warriors by finding positive treatments for their physical and mental well-being.”

“Working with Rivers of Recovery is an excellent opportunity to continue my work of documenting and empirically measuring the efficacy of intentionally designed therapeutic outdoor recreation outings like fly-fishing expeditions,” said Keith Tidball, PhD, Senior Extension Associate, Cornell University & Assistant Director, Cornell Cooperative Extension. “More importantly, it’s a great privilege to engage with my brothers and sisters who are fellow service members, while pursuing beautiful fish in the pristine environments in which they live!”

Rivers of Recovery is an innovative, national nonprofit that uses outdoor-based activities to effectively treat symptoms of post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety in combat Veterans and active-duty military. The organization has achieved national media attention for its unique programs and results-driven treatments, which combine fly fishing and other outdoor activities with a scientifically designed curriculum of therapeutic techniques.