Potomac Conservancy demands accountability for massive Potomac sewage spill, launches public sign-on letter to DC Water

Potomac Conservancy demands accountability for massive Potomac sewage spill, launches public sign-on letter to DC Water

Over 300 million gallons of sewage spilled into the Potomac River since January 19, 2026. That is unacceptable, and we need to hold DC Water accountable for mitigation and restoration efforts in the short and long term. Join us in calling on DC Water to be transparent and share their plans.

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Extra Eyes: using computer vision to enhance dolphin health in the Potomac River

Extra Eyes: using computer vision to enhance dolphin health in the Potomac River

We aren’t the only ones who think dolphins are photogenic! Our friends at the Potomac-Chesapeake Dolphin Project think so too! But for these researchers photos are just for aesthetics, it helps them monitor the dolphins’ health and track changes over time.

Learn how they’re using technology to help out with this time consuming task!

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Winter hikes worth bundling up for in the Potomac Region

Winter hikes worth bundling up for in the Potomac Region

Experience the Potomac region in a new way this winter. With fewer crowds, clearer views, and quiet trails, these hikes provide a different experience than in warmer months. From frozen waterfalls to panoramic overlooks, winter offers some of the most rewarding hiking adventures of the year, when you bundle up and stay safe.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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!

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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!

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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.

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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!

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