Spring Environmental Updates
There’s a lot of environmental news these days, and most of it is not great. When I start feeling down about bad news, it helps for me to do something to make a difference. Every little action helps. Read on for the not-so-good news, the good news, and things you can do to make it better.
Potomac River named “Most Endangered” by American Rivers Council
American Rivers reports that the sewage spill and the location of data centers as reasons for the listing. https://marylandmatters.org/2026/04/15/potomac-river-ranks-no-1-on-new-list-of-most-endangered-rivers/
Latest News on the Potomac Interceptor Repair and Clean-up The good news is that the crisis is over and long-term clean-up is underway. https://marylandmatters.org/2026/04/13/back-to-what-it-was-dc-sewage-response-shifts-to-cleanup/
The ‘poop pipe’ that caused the Potomac sewage spill wants to explain itself The Washington Post (paywall) The real story behind the Potomac Interceptor failure is about what we value. Investment in our infrastructure, like roads, and yes, sewer pipes has been sadly neglected. This is the point of this story in the WAPO. “Washington is full of crap. But don’t blame me. I am the Potomac Interceptor. And I’ve seen what they’ve been writing about me (yes, I can read): that I “failed” on Jan. 19.”
And Now for Some Good News!
How States Are Stepping Up to Protect Their Fresh Water Pew
Across the U.S., Pew has supported states’ efforts to protect and restore bodies of fresh water through policies that support the long-term conservation of these systems. As other states explore possible solutions to their freshwater threats, here are some recent approaches from around the country that they could consider.
Maryland Joins Global Commitment to Protect 30% of Land and Water by 2030 MD DNR
Maryland has long been a leader in land conservation since approving the Program Open Space initiative in 1969, which is used to fund purchases of public lands and conservation easements. Now the state is joining a coalition aimed at preserving 30% of our landscape. Maryland officials will work with members to understand new and innovative ways to propel land conservation forward in a way that benefits ecosystems and communities.
And Maryland isn’t alone. Virginia is also a leader in land conservation, stepping up their efforts to preserve the landscape around those blue lines we love. VA and partners protects more than 5,000 acres of forestland
If you live in DC, you may be able to help our watershed directly, and get paid to do it! Check out the RiverSmart Homes campaign underway now.
New Environmental Research
Understanding the Chesapeake’s catfish problem Chesapeake Bay Program
For more than a decade, the Chesapeake Bay Program’s Invasive Catfish Workgroup has worked to address the challenges posed by blue and flathead catfish in the Bay. Over the years, extensive research has been conducted on invasive catfish in the Chesapeake. The Invasive Catfish Workgroup recently reviewed these projects and publications and identified key findings that can help decision-makers manage invasive catfish.
What separates a lake from a pond? What about creeks and rivers? The Washington Post (paywall)
Could be blue lines? To answer, crack open the National Hydrography Dataset, a modern monument built over decades by the U.S. Geological Survey, the Environmental Protection Agency and dozens of allied groups.
You can also find your watershed on this amazing site: How’s My Waterway? Just enter your location to discover where you live in our wonderful water world. I live in the Lower Four Mile Run watershed. Where do you live?
And while we are on the subject, what’s your favorite bluelining app?
Make a Difference Here’s a great place to find out where to volunteer in your watershed Project Clean Stream https://www.allianceforthebay.org/project/project-clean-stream/
Also, check out the Riverkeeper Network. Here’s a link to the Gunpowder River chapter. They need volunteers for a larval fish and egg survey. Baby fish! So cuuuute!
And while we are on the subject of baby fish, VA DWR: State Fish Hatcheries Support Recreation, Conservation, and a Connection to the Outdoors- and they need our help! Stay tuned…..CWA is going to a fish hatchery!
Save the Fish: Skip the Salt Did you happen to notice all the rock salt on our streets and sidewalks this winter? Welp, it’s horrible for fish. Here’s more info: https://www.bayjournal.com/news/pollution/research-shows-chesapeake-bay-streams-are-getting-saltier/article_3f3d7e07-be48-4223-aa9a-df085730f7c9.html Interested in doing something about it? The Izzak Walton League Salt Watch Program https://iwla.org/salt-watch/ is a perfect way for CWA members to get involved! Stay tuned for a sign-up in the Fall of 2026.
Thanks y’all!
-Laura