If you know where to look, there are many opportunities to stargaze in the Potomac River Region. Appreciating local night skies is a vibrant way to enjoy the beautiful natural world around us.
Read MoreOur dedicated team of river-loving volunteers removed literal tons of trash from our parks and waterways this year. This isn’t just important for keeping our water clean—it can also be a lot of fun! Take a look at some of the most unusual litter they found at our cleanups.
Read MoreBeloved 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.
Read MoreThe Anacostia River got a tunnel to help divert sewer overflow, and now it’s the Potomac River’s turn! Here is everything you need to know about the project, including inside insight from DC Water.
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 MoreBarren trees and icy waters may dominate the landscape during this season, but there is also subtle beauty.
Keep an eye out for these seven resilient plants in the Potomac River region.
Read MoreFrom aquatic life deep underwater to majestic birds soaring overhead, and every living thing in between, there's one thing these animals all have in common: they consider the Potomac their home.
Learn more about some of the amazing species that live in and around the river, and ways you can help defend them against pollution, habitat loss, and the climate crisis.
Excited to get outside this winter but not sure where to start? Team Potomac has helpful recommendations about gear, hikes, and what to listen to this season!
Read MoreIt’s been said that to know where you’re going, you have to know where you’ve been…
We reflect on Potomac Conservancy’s 30-year history of conservation achievements and the work that still lies ahead of us to return swimmable and fishable waters to our community.
Read MoreThe Potomac River has been shaping its physical surroundings for over 3 million years when it was first formed—and for thousands of years, it has played a critical role in the lives of the communities that settled along its banks. Inevitably, humans shaped the river back. Where does that leave us now?
Read MoreAlong the Potomac River, the seasonal fruits, nuts, and grains provide a vital nutritional boost for wildlife. But, humans can enjoy many of the wild edibles found along the river in fall too! Discover which ones are in season right now.
Read MoreThe health of the Potomac River is multifaceted, which is why we looked at several key indicators in the 2023 Potomac River Report Card.
Find out how the nation’s river scored in the “People” category, and why looking at recreational trends is insightful for the overall health of the Potomac.
Read MoreFrom boosting public health to protecting local wildlife to bolstering city infrastructure, land conservation positively impacts our community in more ways than we may think.
Read about some of the less obvious ways protecting the Potomac River’s lands supports our local ecosystems and communities!
Read MoreWhile fishing in the Potomac River is not yet safe, Potomac Conservancy is working hard to change that.
Check out some of the reasons why eating fish caught in the river may put our health at risk, and what actions we can take for clean water.
Read MoreThe Potomac River region boasts around 120 bird species thanks to plentiful food and habitat options.
Check out these five large birds you can easily spot on a thirty-minute walk along the river—and read on for inspiration on what smaller species to look out for next!
Read MoreOur 2023 Potomac Report Card is here! Does the Potomac River get a passing grade…?
Find out the latest health assessment and learn what it’s going to take to restore swimmable and fishable waters to our community.
Read MoreProtecting streamside forests and lands is a critical component of protecting the quality of the water we drink. As a nationally accredited land trust, Potomac Conservancy holds close to 80 conservation easements in the Potomac River headwaters region in Virginia and West Virginia.
Our Stewardship Manager Jeff Feaga spills the beans on what it takes to manage all of these easements, how they benefit communities all along the river, and how he first fell in love with protecting clean water.
Read MoreAlways searching for new nature adventures close to home? Look no further!
Local naturalist, author, and forest-bathing guide Melanie Choukas-Bradley shares her tips for exploring the wild and beautiful Potomac Gorge that boasts incredible geology, biodiversity, and recreation options right in our backyards.
Read MoreNothing in nature is permanent—but even one person’s efforts to create positive change can leave a lasting impact!
Read on to see how shoreline cleanups build our community’s muscle to create change in this world.
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 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 30,000 supporters empowers us to protect and expand streamside forests, pass water protection laws, and restore local shorelines.
Potomac Conservancy
962 Wayne Ave, Suite 540
Silver Spring, MD 20910
EIN: 52-1842501
(301) 608-1188
