Just like people, dolphins are susceptible to disease outbreaks. That’s why the Potomac-Chesapeake Dolphin Project is studying an airborne viral outbreak that caused a mass mortality event among Potomac River dolphins.
So what have they discovered about how and why disease spreads amongst our local dolphin population?And how can we keep them healthy and prevent more outbreaks?
Read MoreEvery autumn, gardeners and landowners ask the same question…what should I do with the fallen leaves in my yard or garden? This year, find out from experts how your decision can help wildlife and clean water in the Potomac River…and create a beautiful, healthy garden.
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 why they’re not (so) scary after all!
Read MoreWith all the progress made since the Clean Water Act was passed in 1972, it may still surprise you to learn there are plenty of ways you can still legally pollute the Potomac River.
Learn how our community allows pollution into our Nation's River – the drinking water source for you and nearly 6 million people – and what you can do about it.
Read MoreDid you know that there are dozens of bat species that call the Potomac River region home…and that many of them are under threat or endangered? Luckily, the work we do to conserve our local lands and waters can also help protect these vulnerable creatures. Take this quiz to get to know some of the bats hanging around in our backyards!
Read MoreWhat do the dolphins that live in the Potomac River sound like? And what are they telling us about where and how they live their lives in our hometown river?
Read on to hear them and find out how local researchers are following their voices to uncover the mysteries of the Potomac River dolphins!
Read MoreHow is the climate crisis affecting the health of residents of the Potomac River region? How can public health officials address these threats? How are these climate burdens unjustly and inequitably impacting communities of color and low-wealth? How can we empower frontline communities for Climate justice solutions?
Find out in Part 3 of Rising to the Challenge, Potomac Conservancy’s climate report series.
Read MoreCan you make a difference for our climate if you’re not an energy policy wonk or oceanographer? Yes, in fact, it’s better that you’re not an expert.
Find out why, six other tips for talking about climate action, and how to get involved today in our local movement on climate.
Read MoreAre you a river lover anxious to capture the wealth of flora and fauna you see? Are you a photographer longing for a new adventure? Well, you’re in luck!
Your hometown river, the Potomac, is home to world-class photography subjects - no plane travel required. Use these simple tips from an expert in photographing the wonders of the Potomac River region…then show us your photos!
Read MoreIn this incredibly stressful time, it’s important to indulge in nature’s restorative powers and take time to unwind. Some of the best relaxation activities can also help our local environment…if you do them right. We’ve got lots of suggestions for self-care methods for nature lovers, and tips and resources for how to do them in a river-friendly way.
Read MoreSmallmouth bass are a $23 million a year industry on the Potomac River, but their populations have been dwindling and disappearing for years. What’s the mysterious cause?
A new study explains the link between our local climate crisis and the health of these legendary fish. It’s time to get to know the scrappy smallmouths, what’s threatening them, and how we can help them flourish in our local waters.
Read MoreWe like to celebrate and visit Georgetown - an iconic and historic neighborhood in Washington DC - for its gorgeous waterfront and boathouses offering access to the river.
But how much of its beauty and legacy does it owe to black residents, who have mostly been driven out of the neighborhood? Here are 3 surprising ways black history and Georgetown history are woven together…
Read MoreThis little known Maryland critter is endangered, spends most of its time underground, and needs your help! It's survival is at a tipping point --
You may not have heard of the tiger salamander, either because it’s endangered or because it spends most of its life underground. But it’s survival is at a tipping point - here’s how you can can help protect the unique habitat it needs to stage a comeback.
Read MoreWhy are waters in the Potomac River region rising much faster than waters in the rest of the world? What are the three types of flooding for which we need to prepare? What are the best solutions to mitigate local flood and storm surge damage? Find out in Part Two of our Rising to the Challenge Climate Report, out now!
Read MoreDon’t drain the swamp, play in it!
For most of this country's history, wetlands were seen as an impediment to development. But now we understand how paving over wetlands means destroying incalculable ecological services - and some of the Potomac River region’s most magical travel destinations.
Read MoreScience says that getting on or near water can ease the collective stress we’re all feeling due to the climate crisis and COVID-19. That’s why protecting our natural resources is more important now than ever.
Here’s how you can help keep our local waterways clean and publicly accessible during a time of crisis.
Read MoreThe climate crisis is here. And by here, we mean the Potomac River Region. Luckily, so is our first-of-its-kind local Climate Report. Our six-part series released throughout the summer will investigate:
How is our region uniquely experiencing a warming climate?
How is the climate crisis affecting the Potomac River and its people, lands, and wildlife?
What actions must be taken to lower greenhouse gas emissions and prepare communities for the future?
What can we do to be a part of the solution in our communities?
Dive into Part One to learn how the changing climate is uniquely impacting the Potomac River region (and how to take action right now!)
Read MoreThere 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.
Read MoreWant to have a yard that works for clean water not against it?
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 harness nature’s power and take steps to ensure your lawn, big or small, is river friendly!
Read MoreWill summers in our cities simply be too hot to handle in the future?? Not if we can help it…
In the Potomac River region, summer doesn't always receive a warm welcome.
What should be a celebratory season is even worse for urban and suburban dwellers, and worse still for those marginalized communities. We'll explore future of local heating further in our upcoming Climate Report,
but for now let's talk about some solutions to the Urban Heat Island effect.
The 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.
