American Rivers announced a $10 million commitment from the James M. Cox Foundation during a special event at the Milton River Walk on Wednesday morning, marking the largest grant in the organization’s history.

• The gift from the foundation — the charitable arm of Cox Enterprises, parent company of Cox Communications — will fund the removal of 400 outdated dams over the next three years and restore 100,000 acres of floodplains by 2030. The work will advance river restoration efforts in all 50 states to improve public safety, habitat and river health.

The grant supports American Rivers’ Life Depends on Rivers campaign, which aims to raise $100 million to transform the health of rivers nationwide. The organization describes rivers as the veins and arteries of the country, noting that population, dams and extreme weather threaten rivers and communities.

“Protecting and restoring our rivers is something all of us can do to help wildlife, our communities and future generations,” said Jim Kennedy, chairman emeritus of Cox Enterprises and chairman of the James M. Cox Foundation. “This is important work and each of us has a role to play. Every contribution helps and I hope our gift inspires others to take action.”

Tom Kiernan, president and CEO of American Rivers, said healthy rivers and clean water are essential for vibrant communities and strong economies.

• “We are grateful for the James M. Cox Foundation and Jim Kennedy,” Kiernan said. “This generous gift will broaden our impact and strengthen the nation’s river conservation movement.”

David Deliman, Gulf Coast market vice president for Cox Communications, connected the announcement to the company’s expansion in the region.

“With Cox continuing to expand into Santa Rosa County, we’re excited to introduce ourselves to the community with this historic announcement taking place along the beautiful Blackwater River in Milton,” Deliman said. “This grant will make a real impact, not just to the rivers here at home, but nationwide.”

Following the announcement, American Rivers and Cox Communications employees partnered for a river cleanup at Blackwater River State Park. Cox regularly supports conservation and local economies through volunteer events, sustainability and Cox Conserves initiatives.

Learn more about the Life Depends on Rivers campaign.