Why paying attention to small streams matters in the big picture of Potomac River water quality

/
Why paying attention to small streams matters in the big picture of Potomac River water quality

Streams might seem small, but they have a big impact on water quality, wildlife, and the health of the Potomac River. Changes in flow can concentrate pollutants, erode streambanks, and stress aquatic life. The climate crisis, causing shifts in rainfall and evaporation, makes these challenges even greater. Potomac Conservancy protects streams by conserving land, organizing local cleanups, and advocating for river-friendly policies, ensuring healthy streams today and a resilient Potomac watershed for the future.

Read More

Salt creeping into the Potomac River endangers local ecosystems and the region’s drinking water

/
Salt creeping into the Potomac River endangers local ecosystems and the region’s drinking water

Snow’s certainly not been a stanger this winter! Using salt can keep our roads safe, but it has dangerous consequences for the Potomac River.

Learn about the threat of rising salt levels in the Potomac and its tributaries, and alternatives to traditional salt to keep both our roads and freshwater safe.

Read More

Potomac River holds steady at “B” for water quality – still short of fishable and swimmable

/
Potomac River holds steady at “B” for water quality – still short of fishable and swimmable

In the midst of a remarkable comeback, the Potomac River has seen a 10% increase in recreation in three years, but now its future is in question…Rising threats to water quality are impacting this wild urban river, the drinking water source for 5 million people in the DMV.

Read More

Through conservation, this new park will preserve the land and the legacy of the people who shaped its story

/
Through conservation, this new park will preserve the land and the legacy of the people who shaped its story

Freedman’s Historical Park preserves both land and legacy. Once home to Enoch George Howard, a formerly enslaved man who built a thriving community, the park protects natural habitats while honoring the stories of the Freedmen. It’s a place to reflect, learn, and connect with history and nature.

Read More

Find new heights of adventure this fall – explore the Potomac region’s best outdoor climbing spots! 

/
Find new heights of adventure this fall – explore the Potomac region’s best outdoor climbing spots! 

Interested in rock climbing but not sure where to start? We’ve got all the info and a deep dive on how contemporary rock climbing was shaped by both the landscape of the Potomac River region and the people who dared to scale its cliffs

Read More

Local Potomac River streams are benefiting from your advocacy, with the leadership of Catoctin Land Trust

/
Local Potomac River streams are benefiting from your advocacy, with the leadership of Catoctin Land Trust

Public funding and speaking out in support of it are crucial to protecting the Potomac River region. Read on to see how this local organization in Maryland is tirelessly working to improve our waterways with public funding.

Read More

Land conservation doesn’t go out of style – White Horse Mountain is a success story a decade later

/
Land conservation doesn’t go out of style – White Horse Mountain is a success story a decade later

Our community power protected this 1700-acre property a decade ago. Now our Potomac River region is healthier and more resilient because of this easement. This land is forever preserved for future generations to enjoy and recreate on.

Read More

This local Volunteer Leader brought communities together to make a big (2 tons of trash worth) splash for the Potomac

/
This local Volunteer Leader brought communities together to make a big (2 tons of trash worth) splash for the Potomac

Albert, a D.C. resident and dedicated Volunteer Leader, has led nine cleanups across the Potomac River region, removing over two tons of trash with the help of community volunteers. His efforts show how every cleanup strengthens both the health of our river and the bonds within our neighborhoods. 

Read More

5 old-growth forests in the Potomac River region to expand your hiking repertoire

/
5 old-growth forests in the Potomac River region to expand your hiking repertoire

Our region’s old-growth forests improve water and air quality, provide vital wildlife habitat, and help fight the climate crisis. And, they also offer a diversity of recreational opportunities! What can’t they do? Check out these 5 local forests to visit!

Read More

Get to know the fascinating dawn and dusk dwellers that thrive in the Potomac’s “twilight zone”

/
Get to know the fascinating dawn and dusk dwellers that thrive in the Potomac’s “twilight zone”

Curious to know why some animals prefer living in the liminal spaces of the day, and which critters to keep an eye out for on your next dawn stroll or twilight hike? Let’s illuminate this fascinating – and, if you ask us, underappreciated – side of wildlife behavior!

Read More

One Potomac local’s efforts to rally his neighbors against overdevelopment in Virginia

/
One Potomac local’s efforts to rally his neighbors against overdevelopment in Virginia

843 acres of pristine forests and freshwater streams are now linked as permanently protected easements in Virginia’s Back Creek Corridor, one of the most biologically significant stretches of the Potomac River region. A central force in this grassroots conservation success story is John Gavitt, the Back Creek landowner who got his neighbors talking about the remarkable legacy they could leave together.

Read More

Launch into refreshing summer fun with these 3 paddle-friendly spots along the Potomac River

/
Launch into refreshing summer fun with these 3 paddle-friendly spots along the Potomac River

From Olympians to politicians, people from all walks of life and across the ages have come to the river for recreation, relaxation, and community. Whether you prefer a serene solo float or heading out with friends, there’s a kayak destination you’re bound to love along the Potomac!

Read More

The river that shaped my Olympic journey: a reflection on the Potomac

/
The river that shaped my Olympic journey: a reflection on the Potomac

Aquil Abdullah is a trailblazer in American rowing, he was the third African American to represent the United States at the Olympics in the sport of rowing and is motivated now to protect the river that has provided him so much. Learn how the Potomac River has been at the center of his Olympic story.

Read More

Less than 50 years ago, Melody Starya Mobley became the first Black female forester. Here’s her story, in her own words.

/
Less than 50 years ago, Melody Starya Mobley became the first Black female forester. Here’s her story, in her own words.

Melody Starya Mobley was the first Black female forester in the US Forest Service in 1977. We sat down and talked with her to hear about her story and how she is continuing to fight for youth and young environmentalists.

Read More

Our new Potomac River Critter of the Year  is an elusive, pint-sized predator with a love of local woodlands!

/
Our new Potomac River Critter of the Year  is an elusive, pint-sized predator with a love of local woodlands!

What’s a cousin of our river otters, has a tail over half as long as its body, and strikes fear in the hearts of porcupines? Read on to find out! 

Read More