Complete the Program | Protecting Our Potomac

Complete 1 activity from each step of the program below!

Learn About the River

01

Protect the River

02

Enjoy the River

03

Share with Others

04

Attend a Cleanup

05

Step 1: Learn About the Potomac River

Begin your journey by exploring the unique ecosystem of the Potomac River and the importance of clean water(complete one the options below).

Native Species

Research 3 animals or plants native to the Potomac River and the DMV area. (Use these matching cards as a place

to start!)

Download Matching Cards

Clean Water Act

Learn about the Clean Water Act and why it matters for rivers like the Potomac.

River Support

Explore how the Potomac River supports people, wildlife, plants, and recreation. Discover 3 services that the river provides to our local community.

River Quality

Learn about the current quality of the Potomac River and how it has changed over time.

2025 River Report Card

Download Scavenger Hunt

Step 2: Protect the Potomac River

Pick one of the following activities!

Try a Runoff Experiment:

Create a model of a town using a roasting pan and aluminum foil, use Legos or small toys to represent areas including agriculture, industry, and housing. Represent pollution with items such as sprinkles, cocoa powder or drink mix packets. Use spray bottles to create a rainstorm and observe the effects on the town and ways that could prevent the runoff from entering waterways.

Write or Draw Ways to Conserve Water

Brainstorm Ways to Keep Trash and Pollutants Out of Waterways

Learn How Salts and Fertilizers Affect Water Quality

Step 3: Enjoy the Potomac

Connect with the river through hiking, water adventures, and creative nature art. (pick one of the following options)

Go on a scenic hike at Great Falls Park
Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Key Bridge Boathouse
Create an art piece inspired by the river
Visit a local park for a picnic by the water
Choose your own adventure!

Step 4: Share With Others

Protecting the Potomac becomes more powerful when more people understand why it matters. Share your knowledge and inspire others to take action.

Perform a Skit

Create and perform a short skit that teaches one way to protect the Potomac River. Share your skit with a troop, family, or friends.

Skit Prompt Ideas

Advocate for Change

Contact local legislators and advocate for policies that help protect local water sources. Write a letter or email to leaders about clean water.

Share What You Learned

Talk with someone else about what you learned during this program. Explain why the Potomac River matters and how you can help protect it.

Make a Potomac Pledge

Create a pledge for yourself about one action you will take to help protect the Potomac River. Share your pledge with someone else.

Pledge Card Template

Step 5: Attend a Cleanup

Even when people try to prevent trash and pollutants from entering waterways, debris can still reach local rivers. The final step of this program is to attend a river cleanup in the DMV area. By participating, you take direct action to help protect the Potomac River.

Visit the Potomac Conservancy website

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