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"The beauty and health of the Potomac River is ours to keep and cherish, and I am happy to be part of this volunteer community that appreciates the gift we've been given."
Laura

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About Us
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS STAFF PARTNERS
Mission

Potomac Conservancy safeguards the lands and waters of the Potomac River and its tributaries and connects people to this national treasure.

As the Voice of the Nation’s River, the Conservancy’s primary focus is to restore water quality by advocating sound policy and promoting thoughtful land management. The Conservancy protects and restores Potomac landscapes by enhancing a network of rivers, forests, and natural areas.  Because healthy lands and rivers reflect the quality of life in our communities,  the Conservancy promotes enjoyment of the river in ways that foster a conservation ethic.  Click here for more about the history of the Conservancy.

Vision for the Future:

From its headwaters in the Allegheny highlands to the tidewater of the Chesapeake Bay, the Potomac River connects people to nature. Its vibrant rivers and streams flow through a landscape of forests and natural areas, safeguarded by the communities they sustain

 

Work for Potomac Conservancy: Professional Opportunities

 
Programs
Potomac Conservancy's programs are built around its strategic priorities of protecting the water quality, scenic landscapes, and recreational opportunities along the Potomac River and its tributaries. Click here for our Strategic Plan. Our tools include public policy and land protection and restoration focused in areas that have the greatest impact on the river, primarily, river- and streamside areas and lands in the headwaters region, which is the river's source.
  • The Conservancy works with landowners and local governments to protect and restore streamside areas through a combination of better stewardship, regulation, and outright purchase. In urban and suburban locations, we advocate the adoption and enforcement of sound land use policies and practices.
  • The Conservancy works to ensure long-term funding for water quality improvements, including land conservation.
  • The Conservancy works to expand and improve the infrastructure necessary for better river access: boat ramps and access points; hiking, biking, and equestrian trails; and primitive campsites.
  • The Conservancy serves as a clearinghouse to inform people about opportunities for high-quality outings and low-impact practices, particularly through its recently renovated River Center at Lock 8 in the C&O Canal National Historical Park.
  • The Conservancy offers countless ways for people to build deeper and longer-lasting relationships with the river through projects that actively involve individuals of all ages in its work, including the nationally acclaimed Growing Native seed collection.