Potomac Conservancy concludes the region’s first comprehensive climate series — Here’s what we learned

It's a wrap! Uncover 7 local climate findings and the nature-powered solutions we must support

Rising to the Challenge

Image courtesy of JOHN Getchel/flickr.

The climate crisis is here. And so is the final chapter of Rising to the Challenge, the region’s first comprehensive climate report.

How it started:

Potomac Conservancy believes everyone deserves clean water, safe streams, and positive experiences in the outdoors. Being in the business of water means we’re in the business of climate, because as we learned throughout our report series, climate change is water change.

Eager to deepen our understanding of how the warming world impacts our mission, we set out to create the first comprehensive climate report for the Potomac River region.

Our team partnered with a climate journalist to unearth the fantastic research being done in our own backyards. We combed through endless data, talked with experts, and heard from the community.

How it’s going:

Rising to the Challenge has unpacked important findings, going well beyond the “basics.” Our report and six-part series have revealed the unique ways in which our streams, wildlife, and communities are impacted by a warming climate and extreme weather.

And along the way, we offered ways to get involved with efforts to curb pollution and create healthy ecosystems that benefit people, plants, and animals. Because our good intentions are only as good as our actions.

Our six-part series helped answer:

  • How is our region uniquely experiencing a warming climate?

  • How is the climate crisis affecting the Potomac River and its people, lands, and wildlife?

  • What actions must be taken to lower greenhouse gas emissions and prepare communities for the future?

  • What can we do to be a part of the solution in our communities?

Dive into Part Six and uncover 7 key climate findings that impact the Potomac River and our community - and the solutions we must support to overcome the crisis of our lifetime!


DC-area tree planting

Rise to the Challenge!

Support Potomac Conservancy and help us protect the Potomac River and vulnerable wildlife from the climate crisis.

Become a monthly sustainer member and provide critical year-round funding for our local initiatives.

Together, we’ll advance clean water and climate solutions that reduce polluted runoff, protect forests, support regenerative farms, and fund nature-based infrastructure.

Join our movement of over 31,000 people who are fighting for the Potomac River!