In our work at the Alliance, we are always looking towards the big picture of the Chesapeake Bay. But in truth, the Bay’s watershed is a collage of overlapping pictures. No matter how much you zoom in, you always find more pictures, more overlaps, and more pieces that make up this big puzzle.

The part of the puzzle I want to talk about today is the Conestoga River. The Conestoga originates in Berks County, PA, but nearly the entirety of it flows through Lancaster County. It’s one of the most scenic waterways in the region, home to a water trail and a variety of recreation opportunities.

But the Conestoga is more than just the aesthetics and activities we witness today. It’s also a testament to all the work going on to improve the health of a watershed. From lowhead dam removal to trash cleanup efforts, and water sampling to restoration work, the river serves as an opportunity for case study, hands-on learning, and stewardship. It was even instrumental in Dr. Ruth Patrick’s work to develop the idea of measuring biological factors to determine water quality.

a large group of people flex their arms in celebration during a clean up event

In 2022, I landed my role with the Alliance in the Lancaster region. With this job change also came a literal move to PA. On my one year work-iversary, I had the wonderful opportunity to go kayaking on the Conestoga with the Conestoga River Club. It brought the river closer to my heart. It reminded me that this wasn’t just a place I was working to improve and protect, but also a place that gave so much to me in experiences. Spending time with the Conestoga is passion made tangible.

a person smiles for a selfie next to a river

Conestoga selfie in 2023 during my work-iversary paddle.

The Conestoga River is on the ballot to be Pennsylvania’s River of the Year, so consider voting! The river’s progress is a testament to what is possible with collaboration, and as a River of the Year, the recognition of the Conestoga would continue to inspire community involvement, stewardship, and elevate public awareness of the waterway’s value. Regardless of the voting outcome, I’ll continue to bring my volunteers to its shores to experience all it has to offer.

Vote for the Conestoga as River of the Year