APRIL 2026
MISSION OF THE MONTH
Improving Urban Conservation Through the Power of Flight
The Passaic River flows through Paterson, New Jersey. The Nature Conservancy is working to strengthen climate resilience through urban conservation in communities like Paterson. Photos: Johnny Quispe | Pilot: Mike McNamara
Flying over northern New Jersey isn’t easy. The airspace is complex, but that’s exactly where LightHawk volunteer pilot Mike McNamara flew with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in New Jersey, following the Passaic River through one of the most densely populated regions in the country.
New Jersey may be the fourth smallest state in the nation, but it carries a lot. Nearly 94% of its communities are considered urban, shaping how conservation happens here. For TNC, that means working in cities, where natural systems exist alongside infrastructure, development, and the people who depend on them.
From above, the team followed the river through Paterson and across the lower watershed, identifying stretches that are difficult or impossible to access and seeing how the landscape fits together. The imagery will help identify opportunities to create open space and implement nature-based solutions along the Passaic River in Paterson to strengthen community resilience, while informing efforts across the broader watershed.
50 In 50 Challenge Returns for Third Year
On Monday, May 4, the 50 in 50 Challenge launches for its third year. Over 50 days, LightHawk pilots will be flying 50 conservation missions across the country, connecting with partners working to protect wildlife, water, and landscapes in real time.
Follow along with our weekly Flight Logs or explore the Mission Board to see where the challenge goes and the work being advanced on the ground. The work doesn’t stop when the flight ends.
We take off May 4. Partners, there’s still time to request a flight during the Challenge.
PHOTO OF THE MONTH
Photo: Mark Henle | Pilot John Priscu
After a winter of record-low snowfall across the West, concern is growing over the state of the Colorado River. Snowpack in the river’s headwaters is expected to significantly impact water availability throughout the basin, bringing renewed attention to how this limited resource is managed.
In late March, Arizona Republic reporter Mark Henle joined a LightHawk flight to document the river and the reservoirs it feeds. During the flight, he captured this image of Lake Powell near Page, Arizona, showing conditions during a critically low snowpack year.
LIGHTHAWK IN THE NEWS
Western Region
Eastern Region
- Concern over big data centers is growing. Is Vermont likely to get one? | NHPR
- Mississippi-Missouri confluence temporarily closed during levee construction in north county park | STLPR
- Missourians would pay for nuclear power plant construction under bill that passes House | STLPR
- Nuclear plant tax exemption bill passes Iowa House | Iowa Public Radio
Northern Rockies Region
TAKING A LONGER VIEW
Photo: Mark Henle | Pilot: John Priscu
Photos: Mark Erskine | Pilot: Mark Gaponoff
LightHawk’s work doesn’t end with a single flight. It builds over time, informing decisions that protect landscapes, wildlife, and communities.
Some supporters choose to extend their impact through a legacy gift, helping ensure this work continues into the future. If you’re interested in learning more, we’d be glad to start the conversation.