FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, January 31, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Wesley Robinson, DCNR
[email protected], 717-877-6315
Delaware River Named Pennsylvania’s 2025 River of the Year
Harrisburg, PA – The Delaware River in eastern Pennsylvania has been selected by a public vote as the state’s 2025 River of the Year, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn and Janet Sweeney of the Pennsylvania Organization for Waterways and Rivers (POWR) announced today.
The Delaware River is of historical, recreational, and natural importance to the country. The river that marks Washington’s crossing, the turning point of the Revolutionary War, it was crucial in the industrial revolution, and now the Delaware River Port is the largest freshwater port in the world. While over 14 million people depend on the Delaware River for drinking water, the river itself was once so polluted that it turned the hulls of ships dark brown. However, thanks to the collaborative effort of government agencies and nonprofits, the health of the Delaware River has been restored. The river now holds more National Wild and Scenic designations than any other river and is home to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, one of the top 20 most visited National Park units in the country. Currently, many of the tributaries of the Delaware River are under study to become nationally protected under the Wild & Scenic program as well.
The Delaware River showcases a legacy of collaboration for environmental good, through the species it hosts, the communities that have been established around it, and the outdoor recreation it provides. As the PA 2025 River of the Year, the Delaware River would use the year to celebrate the power of collaboration, featured in collaboration with the Delaware River Sojourn which is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025.
The public was invited to vote online for the River of the Year, choosing from among three waterways nominated. A total of 8,037 votes were cast, with the Delaware River receiving 2,962, the Youghiogheny 2,784 and the Perkiomen Creek 2,291.
“POWR would like to commend everyone for their support of the nominated rivers, especially for the strong showing of support for the Delaware River,” Sweeney said. “The River of the Year program continues to engage our communities by providing a wonderful opportunity to showcase all the nominated rivers. The Delaware River as Pennsylvania’s River of the Year, will be celebrate for its rich history, natural beauty, and ongoing efforts to protect and preserve this incredible resource for future generations.”
Upper Delaware Preservation Coalition nominated the Delaware River and will receive a $15,000 Leadership Grant to help fund a slate of year-long 2025 River of the Year activities. DCNR and POWR will work with them to create a free, commemorative poster celebrating the Delaware River as the 2025 Pennsylvania River of the Year.
Mark Zakutansky of the Appalachian Mountain Club and Chair of the Delaware River Sojourn Steering Committee shared the following remarks. “The Delaware River’s recognition as Pennsylvania’s 2025 River of the Year is a testament to the power of partnerships in conserving and celebrating this incredible waterway. From its pristine headwaters to its Wild & Scenic lower reaches and tidal waters, the Delaware River brings together communities, organizations, and agencies committed to protecting and enjoying its beauty. As we mark the 30th anniversary of the Delaware River Sojourn, we invite everyone to paddle its waters, discover its rich history, and join a vibrant community of river stewards. We extend our gratitude to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council for this honor and for championing the significance of our rivers.”
In cooperation with DCNR, selection of public voting choices was overseen by the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR), an affiliate of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC).
Visit DCNR’s website for more information on the River of the Year competition and check out DCNR’s Calendar of Events for events on public lands.
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About POWR
POWR is a statewide non-profit that aims to provide the tools, training, education, and resources that empower community watershed organization leaders and volunteers to protect and restore rivers and streams, advocate for sound water resource management and policies, and facilitate stewardship and enjoyment of Pennsylvania’s waterways. POWR is an affiliate of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.