Dallas – Pennsylvania organizations are invited to nominate waterways for the 2026 Pennsylvania River of the Year.
The nomination period is open through November 21, 2025, until 5pm. Selected nominations will be voted on by the public beginning in late November.
“POWR is thrilled to announce the opening of the nomination period for the 2026 Pennsylvania River of the Year! This highly anticipated program shines a spotlight on the Commonwealth’s treasured waterways,” said POWR representative Janet Sweeney. “We look forward to another opportunity for Pennsylvanians to support their favorite rivers in a friendly competition across the state.” Once a river is selected, the local host will organize a year-long series of events and activities to celebrate the river, including the popular River of the Year Sojourn. The nominating organization of the winning river will receive a $15,000 grant to help fund the River of the Year activities.
To nominate a river/waterway, starting on October 13th, please visit https://pecpa.org/apply
All Pennsylvania waterways are eligible for nomination except those from the past five years which include:
2025 – Delaware River
2024 – Allegheny River
2023 – Susquehanna North Branch
2022 – French Creek
2021 – Shenango River
About the River of the Year Program
The Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR) administers the River of the Year program with funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Pennsylvania’s River of the Year is an honor designed to elevate public awareness of specific rivers and recognize important conservation needs and achievements. River of the Year designations have been presented annually since 1983.
About POWR
POWR is a statewide non-profit that aims to provide the tools, training, education, and resources that empower community watershed organization leaders and volunteers to protect and restore rivers and streams, advocate for sound water resource management and policies, and facilitate stewardship and enjoyment of Pennsylvania’s waterways. POWR is an affiliate of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council
