HARRISBURG, PA — The Delaware River has been named Pennsylvania’s 2025 River of the Year, marking the third time it has received the distinction. The announcement by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and the Pennsylvania Organization for Waterways and Rivers (POWR) follows a competitive public voting process. A year-long celebration, including a June River of the Year Paddle, will recognize the river’s profound historical, cultural, and ecological significance.
DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn praised the river as a “conservation success story” and highlighted its vital role in Pennsylvania’s environmental and economic landscape. “From providing drinking water to millions to fueling economic growth and offering outdoor recreation, the Delaware River is a shining example of how communities can work together to protect and restore vital natural resources,” she said.
The Delaware River holds a prominent place in American history, including George Washington’s famous crossing at a pivotal moment in the Revolutionary War. Additionally, the river played a major role during the Industrial Revolution and hosts the Delaware River Port—the world’s largest freshwater port. Today, it provides drinking water for over 14 million people and has undergone a dramatic transformation from its highly polluted state in the mid-twentieth century to a thriving ecosystem. It now boasts the highest number of National Wild and Scenic River designations nationwide.
The river’s selection followed a public voting process that drew 8,037 total votes. With 2,962 votes, the Delaware River edged out the Youghiogheny River (2,784 votes) and Perkiomen Creek (2,291 votes). POWR administers the annual River of the Year competition in partnership with DCNR to spotlight Pennsylvania’s waterways and the efforts to protect them.
“The River of the Year program is an opportunity to highlight the beauty, history, and ongoing conservation efforts surrounding Pennsylvania’s waterways,” said Janet Sweeney of POWR, emphasizing the Delaware River’s dual importance as a historical asset and a model of ecological restoration.
To celebrate this recognition, the Upper Delaware Preservation Coalition, which submitted the nomination, will receive a $15,000 Leadership Grant to organize educational events and activities throughout the year. The highlight of these festivities will be the River of the Year Paddle in June. A commemorative poster will also be produced as part of the celebration.
The Delaware River continues to draw national attention for its ecological and recreational opportunities. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, located along the river, ranks among the top 20 most-visited national park sites in the country. Several of the river’s tributaries are also being considered for inclusion in the Wild & Scenic Rivers program, underscoring its ongoing appeal as a natural treasure.
“This recognition reinforces the importance of partnerships in protecting such an incredible resource,” said Mark Zakutansky, Chair of the Delaware River Sojourn Steering Committee. He noted the river’s pivotal role in initiatives like the Delaware River Sojourn, which will mark its 30th anniversary in 2025, and invited communities to join in preserving and celebrating this iconic waterway.
The Delaware River’s 2025 River of the Year designation highlights not only its storied past but also its future as a living symbol of conservation and community collaboration. Through educational events, public engagement, and continued stewardship, the river’s legacy will serve as inspiration for generations to come.
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