Over 260 million gallons of sewage spilled into the Potomac River since January 19, 2026. This is our water and it’s unacceptable. Read our joint public letter to DC Water calling for accountability, answers, and actions — demands that are shared by 2,100+ residents and 21 environmental organizations and businesses.
Read MoreExperience 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.
Read MoreThe Potomac is our river and our responsibility. That’s why we’re starting the 2026 legislative session in Virginia and Maryland off strong by fighting for critical conservation funding. Learn more about our priorities this session.
Read MoreStreams 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 MorePublic 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 MoreSarah Shores has loved the Potomac River her entire life and knew she wanted to improve it. Not only for herself, but also for her kids’ future. When she started her jewelry business, she found the perfect way to do what she loves and protect what she loves.
Read MoreData centers aren’t new to the Potomac River region, but over the past decade, we have seen a boom in construction, especially in Loudoun County, Virginia. How are these data centers affecting the Potomac River region? Dive in with us.
Read MoreInterested in hiking through a historic battlefield or strolling along a lake while birdwatching?
Ranging from short and sweet to a bit more challenging, these Potomac River region trails will hit the spot no matter what you’re in the mood for!
Read MoreMaryland is facing a major budget deficit this year, and legislators are considering drastic cuts to land preservation programs through 2029, including Program Open Space. We’re speaking up to protect beloved parks, trails, and natural areas that are at risk and need your help.
Read MoreIn the woods of Montgomery County, Maryland, nature lovers enjoy hiking, climbing, and fishing in Rachel Carson Conservation Park. This peaceful natural area is named for biologist and author Rachel Carson, a groundbreaking woman environmentalist. Learn more about the park’s terrain and wildlife and how Carson, who lived in Silver Spring, impacted the national conservation movement.
Read MoreGreat Falls is one of many places along the Potomac we all enjoy visiting, but have you ever wondered how did it became the national treasure it is today? Before it became a protected park, Great Falls had a long history dating to the first President of the United States.
Read MoreThe 2025 legislative session is almost here and we’re excited to protect the Potomac River region. We’re working in both Maryland and Virginia this year. Read on to find out what our priorities are and how you can take action!
Read MoreAll lands in the United States are the ancestral lands of Indigenous peoples. If we want to build an equitable and sustainable movement to protect the Potomac River, our local lands, and the climate, we must learn from Indigenous people and their legacy of environmental activism.
Read MoreWe 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:
Read MoreThe summer is heating up, and we have insider tips on how to beat the heat.
Even though swimming in DC is illegal, there are other ways to enjoy the water around the Potomac River region this season!
Read MoreThe 2024 legislative session is over, and thanks to you, we saw some great Potomac River successes! Dive in to see which bills passed and which made monumental progress.
Read MoreWe partnered with local organizations to share our concerns about environmental damage caused by the Quantum Loophole data centers project in Fredrick County, Maryland.
Read on to see what are our main concerns and recommendations to remedy any environmental harm.
Read MoreAre you worried about your local neighborhood trees in Montgomery County? Us too! Trees are critical to a healthy and thriving Potomac River, which is why we need to protect them!
Read on to see how the Montgomery County Forest Coalition, with leadership from Potomac Conservancy, is fighting for healthier trees in your county.
Read MoreBored of running inside or around your neighborhood? Check out these running routes in the Potomac River area. There are ideas for everyone!
When we spend time recreating near the Potomac River we build a lasting relationship with our beautiful streams, forests, and wildlife. Ready to find the perfect route for you?
Read MoreBlack trailblazers have helped shape the Potomac River region for centuries.
Check out these parks in our area that are named to honor these Black Americans and how you can learn more about the mark they left in our region.
Read MoreThe region’s leading clean water advocate, fighting to ensure the Potomac River boasts clean drinking water, healthy lands, and connected communities.
Potomac Conservancy
962 Wayne Ave, Suite 540
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Call: (301) 608-1188
EIN: 52-1842501
Potomac Conservancy is a nationally accredited land trust and clean water leader in the Potomac River region. We’re committed to restoring the Potomac to full health for the five million people who rely on the river for drinking water and outdoor enjoyment. We improve local water quality through land conservation initiatives that effectively stop pollution from entering our streams and tributaries. Our impassioned base of 35,000 supporters empowers us to protect and expand streamside forests, pass water protection laws, and restore local shorelines.
