Less than 50 years ago, Melody Starya Mobley became the first Black female forester. Here’s her story, in her own words.

Less than 50 years ago, Melody Starya Mobley became the first Black female forester. Here’s her story, in her own words.

Melody Starya Mobley was the first Black female forester in the US Forest Service in 1977. We sat down and talked with her to hear about her story and how she is continuing to fight for youth and young environmentalists.

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5 birdsongs to keep an ear out for on your next spring hike in the Potomac region

5 birdsongs to keep an ear out for on your next spring hike in the Potomac region

With its abundance of forested land and fresh water, the Potomac River region is home to over 120 bird species. Learn how to use sound and sight to identify some species you might see in your backyard or local park.

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3 parks to finding blossoming bluebells in the DMV this spring

3 parks to finding blossoming bluebells in the DMV this spring

Cherry blossoms, move over – its Virginia bluebells time to shine! These native wildflowers bloom around the Potomac River region and we have the intel on where to see them.

Plus, we’ve got some bluebell facts so you can be an expert among your friends!

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Local runners dish on the 5 best running routes along the Potomac River

Local runners dish on the 5 best running routes along the Potomac River

Bored 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?

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“People” are a measure of water quality. Here’s why.

“People” are a measure of water quality. Here’s why.

The 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.

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Local naturalist and author shares 5 reasons why the Potomac Gorge is a must for nature lovers

Local naturalist and author shares 5 reasons why the Potomac Gorge is a must for nature lovers

Always 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.

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15 **more** tips for getting outside in the cold (and loving it!)

15 **more** tips for getting outside in the cold (and loving it!)

Not keen on spending too much time outside in the winter? It’s OK—we know it can feel rather dreary out there. But there are so many benefits to enjoying the outdoors even when it’s cold!

From bundling habits to outdoor education to fun recreation, these tips will help you get outside, LOVE IT, and look forward to doing it again soon!

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15 tips for getting outside this winter

15 tips for getting outside this winter

All of us need the mental and physical health benefits of getting outside—yes, even in the winter. How can you take advantage of the cold outdoors without it feeling like a chore?

Check out this list of how to prepare for cold weather, new activities to try, wildlife you can only spot in the winter, and even how to make a difference for your local community.

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How the Potomac shaped our society and economy

How the Potomac shaped our society and economy

The Potomac River has always played an important role in the nation’s economy and politics, but balancing profit and growth with the health of the river and community proved difficult for a developing United States.

Learn more about the Potomac’s economic and geopolitical influence throughout history—and the lingering environmental consequences of exploitative industries—so we can continue to fight for more protections for the river and move into a sustainable future.

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