“America is a great story," wrote the late Charles Kurault, "and there is a river on every page.” The Potomac is America’s river, rich in history, an important economic, ecological, scenic and recreational resource, home to more than 200 globally significant species, and a primary source of drinking water. But this lifeline is in danger. Last year, reproductive anomalies in smallmouth bass were discovered, and popular Potomac River beaches were closed because of algae blooms. Upstream, rains released into the river millions of gallons of raw sewage from antiquated water treatment facilities. A regional leader in protecting the health, beauty, and enjoyment of the Potomac River and its tributaries, Potomac Conservancy is committed to providing effective and enduring conservation solutions. Programs address clear-cutting of riverside lands; poorly planned development; loss of open space; degraded water quality; and lack of understanding about river health. Tree plantings, river cleanups, and other hands-on restoration activities improve the environment and also touch thousands of lives each year, instilling in people of all ages and backgrounds a sense of place and a “culture of conservation” that will be passed on through generations. The health of the Potomac faces unprecedented challenges--but you can be part of a beautiful and lasting solution.

Hedrick Belin, President 8601 Georgia Avenue, Suite 612 Silver Spring, MD 20910 301 608 1188 ext 202 www.potomac.org