About

A Film Festival by Activists for Activists

SYRCL’s Wild & Scenic Film Festival inspires environmental activism and a love for nature–through film. Wild & Scenic shares an urgent call to action, encouraging festival-goers to learn more about what they can do to save our threatened planet. Save the Date for our 23rd edition – February 13-17, 2025.

Our 5-day flagship festival is held annually in Nevada City and Grass Valley, California. Featuring 100+ films, workshops, visiting filmmaker and activist talks, family-friendly programs, art exhibitions, parties, and more.

Wild & Scenic Film Festival is the largest annual fundraiser for the South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL). Locally, we raise funds and awareness to recover California’s wild salmon and protect the Yuba River watershed.

We take our festival On Tour to around 120 events each year, partnering with groups working to protect and restore the important places in their communities. Wild & Scenic On Tour generates critical funds and increases awareness for grassroots environmental causes globally.

About the South Yuba River Citizens League

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Wild & Scenic Film Festival is organized and produced by the South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL).

The South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL – pronounced circle) was founded in 1983 by grassroots activists determined to protect the South Yuba River from dams. Ultimately, SYRCL won permanent protections for 39 miles of the South Yuba River under California’s Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

Today, SYRCL is the central hub of community activism to protect, restore, and celebrate the Yuba River watershed.

SYRCL’s Mission: SYRCL unites the community to protect and restore the Yuba River. Motivated by our love for this watershed, we advocate powerfully, engage in active stewardship, educate the public, and inspire activism from the Sierra to the sea.

Did you know that SYRCL Members receive discounts on Wild & Scenic Film Festival passes? Active members also enjoy access to the Wild & Scenic Film Library.