Potomac River still not safe for fishing or swimming

The big picture: Rapid development, tree loss, polluted runoff, and heavier storms linked to climate change are all factors, according to the Conservancy.

By the numbers: After a record-low "D" in 2011, this is the Potomac's fifth "B" level grade since 2016.

The good news: Overall river pollution is down, thanks to decades of cleanup work.

• Nature is being protected, with over 20% of the Potomac's forest and farmland conserved.
• People are getting out on the water, with a 10% bump in river recreation since 2020.

Yes, but: Polluted runoff is on the rise — the #1 reason the Conservancy pinpoints for river health stalling or declining.

• Native species like perch and smallmouth bass are struggling.

Between the lines: D.C. has made major gains since the 1970s-era Clean Water Act, but local advocates warn those protections are eroding as the Trump administration weakens federal environmental rules.

What's next: Potomac Conservancy launched an $8 million campaign through year's end to plant trees, restore wastewater buffers and push the river toward an "A."

The intrigue: D.C.'s 50-year swimming ban hasn't stopped A-list celebs from dipping their toes in B-quality (or worse) water — lookin' at you, Lorde and RFK Jr.