Ask An Expert: What to do when you encounter wildlife

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Ask An Expert: What to do when you encounter wildlife

The leaves are changing, the air is cooler, you’re taking a crisp autumn stroll by the river…and you come across a fawn all by itself. Does it need your help?

What if you come across a large buck, opossum, fledgling bird, or potentially venomous snake? Any of these interactions are possible in the fall and, while thrilling, could be dangerous for yourself or the animal. But don’t fear! We asked the experts from Second Chance Wildlife Center how to deal with many common local species.

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A Weekend on White Horse Mountain

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A Weekend on White Horse Mountain

Five years ago, we purchased White Horse Mountain in West Virginia to protect it from development. Last year, the state of West Virginia officially opened it as a public recreation area.

Now you, along with the abundant wildlife that calls the mountain home, can enjoy its vast acres of uninterrupted forest, unimpeded river views, clear streams, and rare wildflowers. Find out how in our visitor’s guide, including 6 adventure activities.

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4 Reasons to Paddle with Potomac Conservancy

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4 Reasons to Paddle with Potomac Conservancy

Ever wonder what it’s like to paddle with Potomac Conservancy?

We aim to make our Alternative Happy Hour Paddles inclusive, diverse, and fun events for all - but don’t take it from us! Follow along with the Instagram story of one of our favorite paddlers and learn 4 reasons why you’ll want to join us on the water.

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Your backyard can help clean the Potomac—here's how

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Your backyard can help clean the Potomac—here's how

Just one inch of rain generates 2,000 gallons of runoff from a typical suburban home. Multiple that by the number of homes in our area and you can see why polluted runoff is the fastest growing source of pollution to the Potomac.

Hear from the experts at Backyard Bounty on how to transform your yard into a river friendly garden that fights pollution and naturally absorbs runoff.

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4 Facts You *OTTER* Know About Otters

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4 Facts You *OTTER* Know About Otters

The Potomac River is home to one of the most adorable aquatic animals- the river otter. Otters around the world have faced centuries of decline due to hunting, trapping, and habitat loss. But our local species is on the rebound.

Do you know how else river otters differ from their sea otter cousins? Discover their quirks, unique habits, and when and where you might be able to spot one in the wild! (Also, cute photos, of course).

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Legislative Round-Up: 7 Clean Water Advocacy Updates from 2019

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Legislative Round-Up: 7 Clean Water Advocacy Updates from 2019

We’re only six months into 2019 and the Potomac Conservancy has already had four major victories for clean water! With the help of our advocates, we’re protecting land, forests, and vital streams on the federal, state, and local levels.

There are several more battles for the River to be won, though, so brush up on the issues in our Legislative Recap so you’re prepared to vote in the next election!

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This land witnessed the Civil War and it's got quite a few stories to tell.

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This land witnessed the Civil War and it's got quite a few stories to tell.

Every piece of land has a story to tell. This one just happens to have stories about the Civil War!

Learn more about this unique property’s rich history and ecology, and what tool the Potomac Conservancy is using to keep it permanently protected for clean water.

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Get the behind the scenes scoop on the District Wharf’s river friendly features

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Get the behind the scenes scoop on the District Wharf’s river friendly features

The newly re-designed District Wharf in Washington, DC isn’t just a playground for river lovers, it’s a model of pollution-preventing, river-friendly development. Discover how hidden elements in the neighborhood’s sidewalks, pavement, and roofs are keeping many Olympic swimming pools of contaminants out of the Potomac every year.

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Your lawn might be a polluter. Here's what you can do.

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Your lawn might be a polluter. Here's what you can do.

You might not realize it, but your lawn could be polluting the Potomac and harming local wildlife. Having a healthy lawn fit for summer picnics and protecting clean water aren't mutually exclusive. Hear from a lawn care professional on how to take steps to ensure your lawn, big or small, is river friendly!

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7 hidden gems and little known parks to explore this summer

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7 hidden gems and little known parks to explore this summer

There are literally hundreds of national, state, and local parks in the Potomac region. Choosing where to go can be overwhelming.

To help you take advantage of the great outdoors this summer, we’ve done the hard work for you. Pack your reusable water bottle and lace up your boots. Here are 7 spots off the beaten path to explore this summer.

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Help us name two dolphins in the Potomac! VOTE for your favorite picks by June 14th!

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Help us name two dolphins in the Potomac! VOTE for your favorite picks by June 14th!

It’s time to flip out! You can name two dolphins in the Potomac River!

Potomac Conservancy and the Potomac-Chesapeake Dolphin Project invite the public, for the first time, to name two wild bottlenose dolphins in the Potomac River.

Check out the top 10 names and VOTE for your favorite picks by June 14th!

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Ask the Expert: What do we know about the Dolphins in the Potomac River?

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Ask the Expert: What do we know about the Dolphins in the Potomac River?

The Potomac River is our backyard, drinking fountain, and playground. But did you know it is also the summer home and breeding ground for some Atlantic bottlenose dolphins?

As dolphins are currently returning to our waters, learn from expert Ann-Marie Jacoby of the Potomac-Chesapeake Dolphin Project about the history, lives, and behaviors of dolphins in the area.

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3 Pollutants in the Potomac River You've Never Heard of

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3 Pollutants in the Potomac River You've Never Heard of

Though the fight against river pollution is gaining momentum, action still needs to be taken against some of the lesser known contaminants plaguing the Potomac. These pesky pestilences may sound unfamiliar, but they can have catastrophic effects on wildlife and public health.

Find out what these pollutants are, how they get into the water, and what can be done to get them out!

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