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The Delaware River is in the running to be named Pennsylvania's 2025 River of the Year. It is competing against two other waterways, Perkiomen Creek and the Youghiogheny River. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn praised the nominees as remarkable examples of the state's rich natural heritage.
The Delaware River is historically significant, marking Washington's crossing during the Revolutionary War. It is now home to the largest freshwater port in the world and provides drinking water to over 14 million people. The river has undergone significant restoration efforts, transforming from a heavily polluted waterway to one with numerous National Wild and Scenic designations. The river also hosts the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a popular national park unit.
Voting for the River of the Year is open to the public until January 24, 2025. The winning river's nominating organization will receive a $10,000 grant from the DCNR to fund celebrations, including paddling events and community activities. According to Janet Sweeney of the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR), the voting process is a fun way to support favorite waterways and promote environmental awareness.
The Delaware River is celebrated for its collaborative environmental efforts, diverse species, and recreational opportunities. If chosen, the river will use the year to highlight the power of collaboration and mark the 30th anniversary of the Delaware River Sojourn.