Some of these substances are known or thought to be endocrine disruption compounds that can interfere with hormonal systems in humans and in the creatures that call the river home. Do not enter the water if you have cuts or open sores. Unlike bacterial infections, any possible effects would likely be from chronic (long-term) exposure. Point Lookout State Park | Scotland, MD. Didn't seem to affect me at all - at least for the 20 miles I did make before a non-swimming … The safety can change day-by-day depending on rain, temperature, and other factors. For more on harmful blue-green algae blooms, visit Maryland Department of the Natural Resources Eyes on the Bay. Officials with the Potomac Conservancy said there’s roughly 1,000 dolphins have been identified swimming in the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. When the safety of your favorite swimming hole is in doubt, it may be best to skip the swim that day. You take a step toward the water that's gently lapping the shore and you hear a crumpling sound under your foot. Be sure to check river levels before you come and know your skill level before attempting to boat on this section of the Potomac. **WARNING: SWIMMING IS PROHIBITED IN D.C. There are many myths floating around that the river is unsafe to swim in, but most of the time, the river is swimmable, but here are some tips to help you make safer choices when deciding to take a dip: Don’t enter the water for several days after a significant rainstorm. Walking along a riverside trail with sunlight slowly burning your cheeks and sweat dripping down your back, you stop and look longingly at the nearby Potomac. So check Swim Guide, make sure it hasn’t rained on Thursday or Friday, and then you’ll know that it is generally safe to swim. Seneca Creek in Poolesville… But the improved grade doesn't mean the river is always safe for swimming. The appearance of the Potomac river can be very deceptive, and that is why it has been so deadly. The Potomac Conservancy gave the river a “B-” on the “Potomac Report Card” it issued in March, stating that the river is on track to be swimmable and fishable by 2025. Great Falls National Park is located on the Maryland and Virginia sides of the Potomac River around Great Falls and constrains the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. If you do choose to swim, wade, canoe, or kayak in the Potomac, here are ways to limit your risk: Do not enter the water for several days after a significant rainstorm. You'll learn what's going right and wrong for our hometown river - and how you can help. Sign up to receive our monthly River Update email. If you’re curious about a particular water hole or spot on the Potomac River, there are ways to find out if it’s safe on any given day. High water levels can cause a normally safe section of the river to have a strong and dangerous current. Blue Hole/Buzzard Rock. Storm flows spike bacteria levels, which decrease with time. There are still extremely strong currents under the water that can pull the unaware swimmer down into the river’s depths. Many stations are monitored only monthly, and many of those don’t test for bacteria. Special events, such as triathlons or other competitions that involve water contact require special permits. There are enough hazards in this section that even the best kayakers can have trouble navigating the rapids. Theswimguide.org provides weather and water quality data for some areas around the basin. When this occurs, runoff flows directly into the Potomac and Anacostia rivers. Copyright © ICPRB 2021 / Privacy Policy / Website Design by Wood Street, Inc. Oysters, pollution charges, cleanups, solar energy, and more in the Potomac News Reservoir. Starting in Tenleytown, Foundry Branch goes through multiple DC neighborhoods before entering the Potomac River. I would not even want to do water sports on the Potomac where my mouth might get splashed with that water. If you like wacky and fun, you can’t go wrong when you visit Six Flags America in Bowie. But there are still ways to ensure you have a safe and fun day on the river. Fantastic swimming with a ton of fun highlighted the long awaited swim in the Nation’s River. You will receive our next monthly River Update e-newsletter. “It was 1966, and I remember visiting Mount Vernon and going down to the dock,” recalls Nardolilli, now executive director of the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River … You can bring power boats to the Potomac River and Sleepy Creek Lake in the wildlife management area. Assuming you're at a stretch of river where it is legal to swim (always check! That would open new outdoor recreation opportunities city-wide and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors, and also represents a concrete milestone for clean rivers which until recently seemed difficult to envision. The waterpark features a massive wave pool, perfect for staying cool all day long. It's a short drive from downtown DC and the perfect way to keep cool and relax on a summer's day. Be aware that currents are generally stronger towards the center of a river and large rocks or rapids can create additional hazards. Swimming, wading, and tubing are not allowed. Disgusting, right? People also swim, kayak and sail in the Potomac River. It is known to be heavily polluted. There are also several special opportunities to swim this summer where Potomac Riverkeeper is monitoring and, of course, our RiverPalooza events where you can paddle, canoe, or snorkel with the Riverkeepers. Anacostia Riverkeeper is reporting weekly on its bacteria monitoring results and other contact data. Like any other mechanical device, treatment plants sometimes malfunction and sewage overflows to the river. However, when it grows very rapidly it forms a “bloom” that rises in the water column to form a bright green sheet on the surface and may be harmful, causing sickness in humans. The concentrations may register in the parts-per-billion, and while they may not individually affect an person, the mixture of compounds found in the water has not been studied. Do not enter the water if you have cuts or open sores. The thousands of chemicals in medicines and drugs, personal care products, residential cleaners and pesticides can show up in river water. A storm upstream can create a swift current downstream, causing dangerous swimming conditions. Nearly every year, there are drowning accidents in this stretch of the river. Over 100 Swimmers complete Washington’s Crossing - Historic 2-Way Potomac Swim. Subject: Re:Can you swim in the Potomac River? The race begins from National Harbor to Jones Point, where Alexandria, Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC intersect, and back to National Harbor. Subject: Can you swim in the Potomac River? It gives you pause. ICPRB promotes stewardship through a variety of outreach and education projects. In many places, the river looks calm on the surface, but invisible underwater currents (and whirlpools), move downward and can pull a person or pet down to the bottom and hold them there; up to 15 - 30 feet below. Cunningham Falls State Park. Bottom line: There are lots of local spots where it is both legal and safe to swim. Higher river levels can make boating dangerous, and rescues can be difficult. If it has rained in the past three days, and the water looks brown or murky, then it is best to avoid touching local waterways. Areas with algae along the surface, where your dog can easily swallow it, should be avoided. Bacteria levels can change rapidly with rain events. The ICPRB provides various maps and other resources for public use to further understanding of the watershed. Check out the Washington Post's interactive map to view the deadly hazards that lurk in these waters. GM is a rower, but not a fantastic one, so he’s taken his fair share of unintentional swims. Thank you! Ten years ago, the Potomac Conservancy rated the river’s health with a “D” grade. Most sewage plants in the region treat to a high degree, and disinfect the water before it is discharged. I would not even want to do water sports on the Potomac where my mouth might get splashed with that water. Septic systems in rural areas, which are largely unregulated, also can fail or be overloaded by rains. There are sand beaches and lake SWIMMING with lifeguards in season at Cacapon State Park. Great Falls might be a no-brainer, but what about the calm water, nowhere near the falls, where it looks nice and flat? The main concern for water contact recreation (swimming, wading, water skiing, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding) generally is bacterial levels. Thank you! Looking for up-to-date information on the Potomac River basin? These pipes are in the process of getting fixed, but before they are, wait out the overflow aftermath. Subject: Re:Can you swim in the Potomac River? It is known to be heavily polluted. Experience the beauty and grace of the Potomac River during a 2-Way crossing or a swim to mid point and back for a single crossing. Swimming, wading, and tubing are not allowed. Storm water from streets and rooftops of urban and suburban areas carries bacteria-laden trash, pet waste, and other pollutants. During the summer months, staff at ICPRB field frequent calls from people wanting to know if a favorite spot on their local river or stream is “safe.” With few exceptions, we are unable to provide a definitive answer. “The Potomac River around Chain Bridge is treacherous and deceiving,” the fire department tweeted. Other major contaminant sources are mostly related to storm water runoff. After strong storms, drainage and sewage pipes in and around Washington, DC can overflow. Except for parks and other facilities where swimming and wading is a sanctioned activity, water monitoring is done at often far-spread stations, usually monthly. For some of the best swimming spots in Maryland, visit one of its best waterparks. While bacteria are integral parts of any natural system, some kinds, in sufficient numbers, can cause gastrointestinal illness, skin and ear infections, respiratory illness, and sometimes worse problems. Belle Haven Marina is located directly down river from Hunting Creek where Alexandria discharges three of its four major CSO outfalls (Outfall 002, 003 and 004). Subject: Re:Can you swim in the Potomac River? The pace and methods in which land is developed and used can cause bacteria problems in local waterways. At many areas designated as bathing beaches, or at parks where wading or swimming is officially allowed, water testing is conducted weekly for bacterial contamination. Swimming or wading is legally restricted in the Potomac River by entering the River (a) though any National Capital Region Park (via CFR) and (b) in most areas between Great Falls and the Maryland/Washington, D.C. line (via COMAR). These are pathways for bacteria to enter your body. Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin. Carefully inspect the flow before dipping your toes in the water and pay attention to local weather patterns. To that end, the Potomac Riverkeeper Network announced Tuesday it will monitor water quality from six points along the river using a floating lab built into a 42-foot boat called the Sea Dog. One of our favorite spots for cooling off on the river is Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Point Lookout State Park, at the southern tip of Maryland's western shore, marks the spot where the Potomac flows into the Chesapeake Bay. In rural areas, agricultural operations can contribute bacteria from animal manure and processing by-products, drugs and chemicals added to feed, sediment, and fertilizer. However, the information needed may not exist. We encourage everyone to safely recreate on the Potomac River. “DO NOT swim anywhere in this area. The region’s leading clean water advocate, fighting to ensure the Potomac River boasts clean drinking water, healthy lands, and connected communities. There could be an up to $200 fine for those caught swimming in the Potomac River, especially near Great Falls and the southern Maryland-D.C. line. their results are available on Swim Guide, along with those of many other areas and beaches. then be sure to dive into our Potomac Report Card. Kayak Photo credit © William MacFarland, courtesy of MacFarlandPhoto.net. Bacteria is also a serious concern. Department of Health Swimming Advisories and Monitored Beaches Map. We’ll keep you updated on local river news, wildlife, and fun outdoor events. People with immunosuppressive diseases should avoid direct contact with the river. Nearly every year, there are drowning accidents in this stretch of the river. If the residents of the basin want a swimmable Potomac–and its tributaries that make up our local streams–both governments and the citizens of the basin will need to make strong commitments to improve water quality. Glancing down, you see a plastic bottle half buried in the sand. Since 1971, District law has banned swimming or wading in the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers as well as Rock Creek. Since August, four people who were fishing in the Potomac River or handled equipment or fish that had been in the water have been treated at Mary Washington Healthcare facilities Recently, the Potomac and Anacostia riverkeepers, along with other groups, perform weekly bacteria monitoring of a network of sites in the metropolitan area. A small amount is unlikely to affect most people. It's a common question we hear from concerned folks in the Washington, DC area- especially in these hot summer months. There are exceptions for those who operate a boat, canoe, or kayak and happen to fall in wearing a personal flotation device. Significant rains cause the pipes to back up, and a mixture of sewage and storm water that normally goes to a treatment plant backs up and discharges directly to a waterway or river. Higher river levels can make boating dangerous, and rescues can be difficult. Government agencies tasked with the work will require strong public and monetary support. There are countless swimming spots across our region – from the sandy beaches at Point Lookout, to backyard streams and creeks. A typical inquiry to ICPRB asks “I like to water ski with my family downstream of Alexandria, Va. Will we get sick?” Although helpful data is not always available in specific areas,  we do provide some general guidance below: In past decades, sewage treatment plants were a major cause of bacterial loads in the river. Do not swallow water. There are still extremely strong currents under the water that can pull the unaware swimmer down into the river’s depths. Citizens need to voice their demands for a cleaner environment while becoming stewards of their local waterways. State and local agencies face competing budget priorities at the same time that land is being developed at a rapid pace. By Matt Bush The National Park Service is underscoring the fact that it's illegal to swim in the Potomac River in the C & O Canal National Historical We are using cookies to give you … While many do not give it a second thought, others wonder about the safety and cleanliness of the water in the Potomac River and its tributaries. Violating the law is punishable by a $300 fine or 10 days in jail. WASHINGTON — The Potomac River just got its report card, and the news is quite good.. U.S. Park Police are searching for a group of men who robbed someone on the bank of the Potomac River in Arlington and forced him to swim across to the District, a spokeswoman said. Great Falls/Mather Gorge. Technically it’s still illegal to swim in the Potomac from Georgetown. While much of the river runs through mountainous terrain, the Potomac does have several large public beaches. Feel the majesty, make history and register now! When Mike Nardolilli was ten, his grandparents brought him to Washington for the first time. However, broken sewer pipes that collect waste for transfer to the plant can leak raw sewage into waterways. This kind of pollution frequently affects the Anacostia River and Rock Creek, and can affect the adjacent segment of the Potomac. Climbing For safety reasons, swimming in the Potomac is illegal between Great Falls and the southern Maryland/DC line. In addition to bacteria, traces of many other substances can be found in our waters. Beach areas with resident populations of geese and ducks can show elevated bacteria levels. Additionally, older urban areas, including a large portion of Washington, D.C., are served by combined sewer systems that route sewage and stormwater through the same pipes. Avoid algae blooms (brightly colored water) and trash in the water. If you are searching by state, the Potomac River is located in Maryland. Well, if you saw our latest report card, you’d see that the river’s health has improved from a D to a B in ten years. You can book a tubing trip on the Shenandoah or the Potomac River and decide whether you want a relaxing flat water float or an adventurous white water exploration. Like … © 2021, Potomac Conservancy, Silver Spring, MD. “In the next 10 years, the Potomac is poised to be the next urban river where you can go swimming,” Belin said. The only places the Potomac is dangerous (due to undercurrents) is the area around Great Falls and immediately downstream, and in the area of above Chain Bridge to down just south of Three Sisters Islands. It is not safe to swim in which of the following locations, due to dangerous rapids. Update and Results Aug 23, 2020 - WaveOne Open Water and National Harbor hosted the first open water swimming race of 2020 in America. It is illegal to go swimming in the Great Falls area of the Potomac River, an area also known as Mather Gorge. That sounds strange, so let’s clear up a few points and to provide tips to keep your summer cool. Great Falls might be a no-brainer, but what about the calm water, nowhere near the falls, where it looks nice and flat? "Is it safe to swim in the Potomac River?". Anonymous Outside of organized events it is illegal to swim in the Potomac in DC, and also in MD between the DC line and Great Falls. Do not enter the water for several days after a significant rainstorm. 100% Privacy. Ask the Expert: Is it safe to swim in the Potomac River? But you should also be aware that they cancel the swim leg of that race very regularly due to raw sewage washing into the river after heavy rain. It is known to be heavily polluted. But you still shouldn’t swim in it. However, if you like fast-paced thrills, zip down one of the water slides. Trees and other large debris can lurk just below the water's surface and pose serious danger to those in the river. I would not even want to do water sports on the Potomac where my mouth might get splashed with that water. Get Exploring! Our collective voices are already making huge strides for local. “In the next 10 years, the Potomac is poised to be the next urban river where you can go swimming,” Belin said. Bottom line: It is illegal to swim between Great Falls and the Maryland/DC line. If you find yourself asking, "How healthy is the Potomac River?" As some of you may know – you’re not allowed to swim in the Potomac river in the waters of the city of the District of Columbia . The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides some helpful hints to protect your dog from harmful algal blooms. Heavy rains can cause flows that overwhelm treatment plants. It is illegal to go swimming in the Great Falls area of the Potomac River, an area also known as Mather Gorge. You can run your own test for e.coli or let others do the testing for you- local citizen scientists are regularly testing our waters and uploading data to the Swim Guide app! The answer is - it is and it isn’t. Check out the Washington Post's interactive mapto view the deadly hazards that lurk in these waters. Dogs can swallow a lot of water while splashing around in the river, which increases their risk of getting sick. 11/02/2020 16:03 Don’t let the calm-looking water fool you! If you’re unsure, download the Swim Guide app! For safety reasons, swimming in the Potomac is illegal between Great Falls and the southern Maryland/DC line. So, yeah, you can swim in the Potomac. Algae makes up the base of the aquatic food chain and is essential for healthy waters. When I did MIMS in 2006, the only open water I had that year was a 3 miler (The Potomac River substitute swim that Julie mentioned) and a 2 mile race that I did as a goof-off. In all, 16 people had to be rescued between Saturday and Sunday. Be extra mindful when allowing your four-legged friend in the river. You are allowed to swim in it upriver of DC a bit – where the water is ‘cleaner’ (actually, it’s quite nice about 50-60 miles upriver near Harpers Ferry). The reasons why you can’t safely or legally swim in the District’s rivers could be resolved within the next several years. You’ll receive our next monthly River Update email with river news, wildlife stories, and fun-usually free- outdoor events! Like in Georgetown for instance? Anonymous: Anonymous wrote: Anonymous wrote: Anonymous wrote:The fish are becoming intersex in the Potomac. We don't spam or share your information. Particular areas in which people swim from an uncontrolled beach or from a boat may or may not have a water quality monitoring station in the general area. Bacteria occur naturally in the water, but there are certain kinds – like E. coli – that are good indicators of sewage pollution. That isn’t so true any more. Canoeing, kayaking and tubing are preferred sports on the Cacapon River. Climbing Many of these areas are heavily used with no reports of outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness. They have a triathlon in DC every year and the swim portion is in the Potomac. Be sure to check river levels before you come and know your skill level before attempting to boat on this section of the Potomac. Storm flows spike bacteria levels, which decrease with time. The gasoline gets into the Potomac by storm-water runoff and in this project I can inform people on how polluted the Potomac River actually is. For that reason, an activity such as boating, where people may just get splashed occasionally, is much less risky than swimming. 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