3 State Waterways Nominated For PA 'River Of The Year'

PENNSYLVANIA — Three of Pennsylvania's most ecologically and socially important waterways have been nominated as Pennsylvania's "River of the Year" for 2025.

The annual award, presented by the nonprofit Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers, is aimed at promoting conservation and public awareness of key natural resources around the state.

The goliath Delaware River, and the lesser known but sprawling Youghiogheny River, which runs through Pittsburgh, West Virginia, and western Maryland, comprise two of the nominees. The third is Montgomery County's Perkiomen Creek, small by these standards at just 37.7 miles but serving as one of the Schuylkill River's most important tributaries.

The public decides who wins by voting online here.

The Delaware is currently in first, the Youghiogheny in second, and the Perkiomen in third, but the race is close.

How to Vote

Voting is open now through 5 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025. Votes can be cast online at the POWR website, with details on each nominee and the River of the Year program. One vote per email address is permitted.

“We are excited to once again kick off the public online voting process for Pennsylvania River of the Year,” said Janet Sweeney, of POWR. “As we all continue to spend more time outdoors and deepen our appreciation for the beautiful natural resources of Pennsylvania, the annual River of the Year voting process is a fun way to rally behind and support your favorite waterway.”

The winning river’s nominating organization will receive a $10,000 DCNR grant to fund year-long celebrations, including paddling events and community activities. A commemorative poster will also be created to honor the 2025 River of the Year.

Voting ends Jan. 24.

With reporting from Patch correspondent Jeff Werner