Curious about the numerous butterflies and moths fluttering around the Potomac River region? Find out how caterpillars spend their fall months, before emerging into butterflies and moths in the warmer months!
Read MoreThe Eastern box turtle may not move fast, but it has a lasting impact. Found across the eastern US, including our neck of the woods, this small, land-dwelling turtle supports healthy forests through its feeding habits and movement across the region. Your Potomac River 2026 Critter of the Year is a reminder that even the smallest critters in our ecosystems have a major role in its health!
Read MoreIn 2019, America voted, Potomac locals voted to name two dolphins who call the Potomac River home. We’ve all experienced a lot in 7 years, and they have too!
Check out how they’re doing in 2026, with this guest blog from our friends at The Potomac-Chesapeake Dolphin Project
Read MoreWe aren’t the only ones who think dolphins are photogenic! Our friends at the Potomac-Chesapeake Dolphin Project think so too! But for these researchers photos are just for aesthetics, it helps them monitor the dolphins’ health and track changes over time.
Learn how they’re using technology to help out with this time consuming task!
Read MoreCurious to know why some animals prefer living in the liminal spaces of the day, and which critters to keep an eye out for on your next dawn stroll or twilight hike? Let’s illuminate this fascinating – and, if you ask us, underappreciated – side of wildlife behavior!
Read MoreWhat’s a cousin of our river otters, has a tail over half as long as its body, and strikes fear in the hearts of porcupines? Read on to find out!
Read MoreWith 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.
Read MoreThe decline of America’s bald eagles—and their community-powered rebound—was one of the defining moments for the nation’s environmental movement, especially in the Potomac River region. Their road to recovery highlights the importance of preserving ecological balance.
Read MoreCurious about how local critters get through the winter?
We’ve got the intel for you! Whether it’s packing on the pounds, getting out of dodge, or cozying up with some friends, Mother Nature has quite an amazing response to the cold. Find out how five common critters spend the winter.
Read MoreIf 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!
Read MoreLet’s dive into the river and learn about some unusual animals and what makes them stand out among the rest. While there are some you may be familiar with, others you may have never heard of before.
Read MoreSpotting 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!
Read MoreBaby 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!
Read MoreShad are a key species in the Potomac River, but their population hasn’t always been stable. We talked with two local anglers who shared their insight on how shad are making their comeback and what barriers are in their way.
Read MoreThe researchers at the Potomac-Chesapeake Dolphin Project kept their snout on the grindstone and solved the mystery of who the mystery fin is! Find out more about this elusive mammal and what the scientists learned about them!
Read MoreResearchers at the Potomac-Chesapeake Dolphin Project are seasoned detectives. They’ve helped identify 2,000 dolphins in local waters by closely observing their unique marks and features — but one mystery dolphin left the team stumped last summer.
Dive into the fin-tastic details of this conundrum in the Potomac River.
Read MoreWait, there’s dolphins in the Potomac? Yes! Dive into how disease has affected this dolphin population.
Spoiler: it isn’t all bad news!
Read MoreThe Potomac River’s ecologically rich habitat is home to over a thousand species of animals, and some of the coolest ones around are also the creepiest.
This Halloween, conquer your fears by discovering which animals just put on a spooky face and which are actually scary!
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 MoreLearn more about what national park status would mean for the Chesapeake Bay’s residents, wildlife, ecosystems, and economy!
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
4500 East-West Highway, Suite 150
Bethesda, MD 20814
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 42,000 supporters empowers us to protect and expand streamside forests, pass water protection laws, and restore local shorelines.
