The United States Rafting Association is the governing body for raft racing in the United States. The USRA was a founding member of the International Rafting Federation, which in 2026 merged with the World Rafting Federation to form the Unified Rafting Federation. The USRA is a founding member of the URF and works in partnership with the URF and other national governing bodies worldwide to ensure the United States is represented in international competition.
The USRA promotes the sport of raft racing across the country, from the grassroots level to elite national competition. Teams selected through the National Championships represent the United States in international events. The USRA is committed to growing the sport nationwide and operates as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
Mission Statement
Establish the USRA as the governing body for whitewater raft racing in the USA by partnering with and providing resources to the regional communities, newly formed and established teams.
Values Statement
Environmental Stewardship: We protect the watersheds in which we operate, promoting responsible practices that minimize our impact on ecosystems and waterways.
Safety: We prioritize the safety and well being of all participants, ensuring that raft racing is conducted with high standards of safety practices, equipment, and training.
Equity: We foster an equitable and inclusive environment while encouraging the development of competitive raft racing, without discrimination based on race, age or gender and without geographical bias. We strive to eliminate disparities and empower individuals of all backgrounds to fully participate in and contribute to the rafting community.
Community: We build respectful partnerships, share knowledge, and provide support to raft racers and those that support raft racers. We cultivate networks to lift up raft racing and build a fun, joyful and thriving raft racing community that thrives on the principles of fair play, and camaraderie among its members