June is National Rivers Month
Celebrate National Rivers Month this June! This 30-day observance highlights river ecosystems in the United States and 60 countries worldwide. Established in the United States in 2005, National Rivers Month promotes conservation and restoration while celebrating the ecological, economic, and social importance of rivers and streams.
Pennsylvania is a water-rich state, blessed with 86,000 miles of rivers and streams. Rivers and streams are vital, freshwater systems that should be celebrated. In many cases, major streams and rivers are the lifelines of our communities and are national treasures. They add beauty to the landscape, provide transportation, supply drinking water and irrigation water, provide food, provide valuable habitat, support a diversity of wildlife, and possess a rich history. River ecosystems also offer ample recreational opportunities, including kayaking, fishing, swimming, floating, and hiking.
Pennsylvania has many treasured rivers. The Susquehanna, Delaware, Clarion, Allegheny, Monongahela, Schuylkill, Ohio, and Conestoga are just a few. Here are some remarkable river facts:
- The Susquehanna River, one of the world's oldest, is the largest tributary to the Chesapeake Bay, draining 27,510 square miles.
- The Delaware River supports habitats for American Shad, striped bass, and river herring.
- The Clarion River is designated as Wild and Scenic for nearly 52 miles.
- The Allegheny River has the world's most populous freshwater mussel habitat.
- The Monongahela River is the workhorse of Pittsburgh's three rivers. It is best known for transporting commodities such as coal, iron, and steel for industry.
- The Schuylkill River's entire watershed lies within Pennsylvania. It is popular with rowing enthusiasts and hosts many regattas.
- The Ohio River discharges 180 billion gallons of water per day into the Mississippi River.
- The Conestoga River has been selected as Pennsylvania's 2026 River of the Year! It has suffered from significant pollution. Community action and countless projects have been essential in the river's comeback.
How will you celebrate Pennsylvania's rivers?
Local conservation and watershed groups are hosting events in June. Choose how you want to participate: grab your kayak or canoe and join a sojourn, enjoy a lazy float, lace up for a riverside trail, take your fishing rod to your favorite spot, birdwatch with friends, capture river beauty with your camera, or simply pause and enjoy the view. Explore and learn about our diverse river ecosystems and their deep history by attending local river presentations offered by organizations. Find an event near you and make plans to join the celebration!Â
River and stream ecosystems are impacted by land development, stormwater runoff, abandoned mine drainage, fertilizers, pesticides, and more. Single-use plastics, tires, fishing line, and more litter waterways. Protecting rivers is essential for maintaining biodiversity and sustainable water use. Take action and help restore them for future generations. Plan your own cleanup or join a community effort. Participate in a tree planting near you. Work with your municipality to mark storm drains in your neighborhood. Plant a native garden. Working together to protect rivers benefits both rivers and our communities. Opportunities await!
Most Pennsylvanians live within a mile of a stream or river. These waterways are essential to our survival, providing economic, ecological, and cultural value. Deepen your connection with them, advocate for protective policies, support conservation initiatives, and celebrate these national treasures.
