Issues

Want a list of the most pressing problems facing our water supply? Look no further! In this section, you'll find a brief overview of issues facing the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. For basic information about the rivers, including length and drainage areas, please see our River Facts.

Chemical pollution: there are 80,000 chemicals in the US marketplace. Our government only tests our water for 1 out of every 400. Learn more >>

Nutrient pollution: nitrogen and phosphorus are entering our water in toxic amounts, spawning algae that leads to fish kills. Learn more >>

Paved surfaces: dirt and oil rush into our water supply at high speeds when we pave over natural buffers. Learn more >>

Sewer overflows: rainstorms can cause vast amounts of unprocessed human and industrial waste to spill into our water supply untreated. Learn more >>