Why Saving Back Creek Matters—3 Locals Share Why This Hidden Gem Deserves Protection

Why Saving Back Creek Matters—3 Locals Share Why This Hidden Gem Deserves Protection

Protecting the land around the Potomac River is critical for its health. We talked with local residents to hear why they think safeguarding the Back Creek region is essential to their community and everyone in the Potomac River watershed. 

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QUIZ: If you ace this, you’re ready for a Potomac River category on Jeopardy!

QUIZ: If you ace this, you’re ready for a Potomac River category on Jeopardy!

If you’ve ever been told you should be a Potomac River tour guide, this quiz was designed with you in mind. From natural wonders to the foundations of our nation’s history, our region is steeped in fascinating facts too good not to share. The more we learn about the Potomac, the more we want to protect it for all to enjoy!

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As the climate crisis raises the Potomac River, Tidal Basin seawalls level up

As the climate crisis raises the Potomac River, Tidal Basin seawalls level up

Why do the Tidal Basin seawalls need an upgrade, and how long will it take? The passage of time and the growing intensity of the climate crisis mean the Tidal Basin needs better flood protection – much better.

Read on to learn about this costly infrastructure project and the power of harnessing nature-based solutions to adapt to climate change.

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We’re standing united against irresponsible tree removal along the George Washington Memorial Parkway

We’re standing united against irresponsible tree removal along the George Washington Memorial Parkway

Trees are not a luxury, they're an essential natural defense against water pollution and the climate crisis. That's why Potomac Conservancy is standing with local environmental partners to stop further destruction of mature trees along one DC-area highway. Read our joint letter.

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Congress’s inaction to pass an updated Farm Bill is harming the Potomac River

Congress’s inaction to pass an updated Farm Bill is harming the Potomac River

The Federal Farm Bill is essential to advancing conservation in our region because it provides critical funds and resources that unlock easement opportunities for farmers and everyday people. In fact, it’s the single largest source of private conservation funding. 

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Five spots you *otter* try otter-spotting in the Potomac River region

Five spots you *otter* try otter-spotting in the Potomac River region

Spotting an otter along the Potomac River is an exciting challenge. Local nature lovers and otter experts generously offer some tips to nudge us in the right direction, sharing intel on where river otters are seen around the Potomac River Region.

Otter activity is an indicator of clean water (our passion) – join us in celebrating their presence and charm!

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Tree Planting Project in Shepherdstown, WV takes root thanks to key partners coming together

Tree Planting Project in Shepherdstown, WV takes root thanks to key partners coming together

Good news: the Potomac River region’s tree population just got bigger! We’re tree-ting our river with this major sapling planting in the headwaters. Not only will these trees provide shade when they grow tall, they will also help clean our water!

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We’re banding together to take bold action for the Chesapeake Bay Region

We’re banding together to take bold action for the Chesapeake Bay Region

We appreciate the work of the Beyond 2025 Steering Committee but feel the recommendations do not go far and move quickly enough. The following letter offer alternative recommendations for the Chesapeake Executive Council to consider adopting at their annual meeting in December:

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This conservation easement is protecting land, cleaning water, and helping these 4 plants thrive

This conservation easement is protecting land, cleaning water, and helping these 4 plants thrive

Our Potomac River region is home for many plants that serve a dual purpose! They aren’t just pretty to look at, they have other important benefits, too!

The key is, we need to protect the land and water they rely on. Without a healthy environment, these plants can’t thrive!

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Newborn dolphins are expected in the Potomac River any day now – Here's what we're learning about them

Newborn dolphins are expected in the Potomac River any day now – Here's what we're learning about them

Baby dolphin season is almost here! We’ve talked with dolphin experts, so you know how to help the dolphins and their babies this summer.

It’s critical we continue to protect these amazing creatures that we share the Potomac River with!

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To protect clean water, we need to talk about the Potomac’s English ivy problem

To protect clean water, we need to talk about the Potomac’s English ivy problem

Beloved ornamental or tree killer? English ivy has blanketed our region, harming trees and reducing biodiversity wherever it grows. We talked with Jon Nowick of Tree Friends United about how to get invasive vines under control.

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