Who is MRA?

Medicine River Academy is an immersive outdoor education service dedicated to teaching individuals the art of river navigation, the use of plants for medicinal purposes, camping equipment management, fire pan utilization, Dutch oven cooking, and a myriad of other skills. Our focus extends beyond practical knowledge to instilling a strong sense of stewardship for both the land and the river.

Situated in Salmon, Idaho, along the Salmon River—once referred to as the Medicine River by local native tribes—we recognize the profound healing and rejuvenating qualities rivers possess. While we believe that all rivers are therapeutic, the Salmon River holds a particularly potent medicine for the soul.

In an era marked by increasing division and a growing disconnect from nature, our mission is to bridge this gap. We aspire to guide individuals on a journey of reconnection with Mother Earth, set against the backdrop of the stunning Salmon, Idaho environment. Our emphasis is on fostering UNITY—unity among participants, with the river, the forests, the animals, and our precious Mother Earth.

MRA founder and instructor leads a group who are seated in a raft.

Board of Directors

Matt Rigsby

Matt has been kayaking and guiding rafts on rivers all over the world for ~30 years, which brought him to Salmon ID. He has dedicated his life to being outdoors as much as possible and is passionate about sharing his love for nature. He started MRA with a goal to emphasize the importance of stewardship with the younger generations and firmly believes that the path to a healthier society and planet begins with a love and respect for Mother Earth.

Founder, Board President

Lana McGrady

Lana moved to Salmon Idaho from Olympia WA.  She has been an Auditor at a large casino and currently works remote as an Accounting Coordinator. She loves life in the small town with her Kids, Cat, Dog, and Chickens.

Treasurer 
Board Secretary

Adrienne Rigsby

Adrienne is from Indiana, having achieved a BA in Anthropology with a goal of working among great apes.  In 2010 she moved west, trading a career in zoos and animal shelters for a livelihood based on outdoor recreation.  She has served on several non-profit boards, and owned a river/fishing outfitter on the Salmon River.  She enjoys spending time anywhere that nature is abundant!  

Board Member

Sean Ruggles

Bio Coming Soon!

Margo Nelson

Originally born and raised in Salmon, Margo has had a decades long radio career mainly in Boise, Idaho. She is a University of Idaho graduate.  Margo spent the last 20+ years working in areas of native plant propagation, sustainable living practices, forest bathing, and as a substitute teacher. 


Board Member

Nicole Higgins

Nicole is an Environmental Scientist professionally and earned a B.S. degree in Recreation Management. She is also a volunteer ski patroller in the winter and a whitewater raft guide in the summer. Nicole enjoys exploring both Montana and Idaho and spends much of her free time skiing, rafting, hiking, and drawing.

Board Member
Board Member

Courtney Frost

Bio Coming Soon! 

Board Member

Philip Goodell

Bio Coming Soon!

Contact us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!