2025 River of the Year!
Delaware River Named Pennsylvania’s 2025 River of the Year!
DELAWARE RIVER OF THE YEAR FESTIVAL: JUNE 18
This marks the third time the Delaware River has earned the title, having previously won in 2002 and 2011.
The Delaware River was named the 2025 Pennsylvania River of the Year by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and the Pennsylvania Organization for Waterways and Rivers (POWR) after a public vote.This honor highlights the significance of rivers, their conservation needs, unique history, recreational value and economic importance to communities. It also celebrates partnership: all levels of government, NGOs, businesses, stakeholders and the public working together to celebrate safe, accessible and responsible recreation, support river communities and promote clean and sustainable water resources.
The Upper Delaware Preservation Coalition (UDPC) nominated the Delaware River for this honor on behalf of the Delaware River Sojourn Steering Committee to highlight the Sojourn's 30th Anniversary in 2025; UDPC serves as the Sojourn's fiduciary and registrar.
Click here for the DCNR news release announcement (issued February 13, 2025)
"The Delaware River is a conservation success story, and this designation is a testament to its historical, cultural, and recreational significance," said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. "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."
"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. "The Delaware River stands out not only for its role in American history but also for its transformation into a model of ecological restoration and stewardship."
"The Delaware River’s designation as Pennsylvania’s 2025 River of the Year underscores the power of partnerships in conserving and celebrating this incredible waterway," said Mark Zakutansky of the Appalachian Mountain Club and Chair of the Delaware River Sojourn Steering Committee. "As we mark the 30th anniversary of the Delaware River Sojourn in 2025, we invite everyone to experience its waters, learn about its history, and join the community dedicated to its preservation."
Multiple partners are working together to plan the 2025 Delaware River Sojourn and events surrounding the 2025 Pennsylvania River of the Year designation.
Click here for a listing of Delaware River Sojourn and River of the Year Partners
In addition to the Delaware Sojourn happening June 14-20, a June 18 Delaware River of the Year Festival is planned at Minisink Park in East Stroudsburg, Pa. While part of the Delaware River Sojourn, the festival is free and open to the public!
Please Save the Dates & Join the Celebration!
[click for more on each event]
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Be sure to bookmark this page for updates about vendors & activities for the June 18 Festival & additional River of the Year events!
