The river supports diverse ecosystems, provides drinking water to millions, and serves as a critical artery for economic activity. We must unite together to ensure that the Mississippi River remains a source of life, prosperity, and inspiration now and for future generations to come
Jessie Ritter, Associate Vice President, Waters and Coasts with National Wildlife Federation
Most endangered rivers
Threat: Increased flooding, inadequate disaster prevention and response
The Mississippi is “America’s River,” flowing through the nation’s heartland, providing drinking water for 20 million people and supporting vital agriculture, industry, and recreation. But frequent and severe floods are threatening lives and businesses, while the river’s health declines. Communities along the river need significant support for disaster prevention and response, as well as river restoration – but the fate of the lead federal agency, FEMA, hangs in the balance. The Trump administration should modernize FEMA to improve river health and maximize the safety, security, and prosperity of Mississippi River communities.
American Rivers appreciates the collaboration and efforts of our partners:
- 1Mississippi
- Association of State Floodplain Managers, Inc
- National Wildlife Foundation
“Although the Ohio River spans many miles, it unites everyone; from those that draw their drinking water to those that recreate along its many diverse landscapes. We must protect the river so that we, and future generations, can have a fishable, swimmable, drinkable Ohio River.”
Jess Friss, Director of Community Programs, Three Rivers Waterkeeper
Most endangered rivers
Threat: Pollution & Climate Change
The Ohio River unifies 30 million people across 15 states, from New York to Mississippi. Protecting this precious resource is essential to ensuring the endurance of cultural identity, historical significance, biodiversity, vibrant river communities, and safe drinking water. But the upper river is threatened by industrialization and pollution, recently exemplified by the East Palestine train derailment. This ongoing chemical disaster underscores the vulnerability of the Ohio River and need for increased safeguards and durable funding for additional and continuous monitoring. To protect the Ohio River, Congress must designate the river as a federally protected water system and commit to significantly fund both the Ohio River Restoration Plan and Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission’s technical upgrades.
American Rivers appreciates the collaboration and efforts of our partners:
- West Virginia River Coalition
- Three Rivers Waterkeeper (PA)
- Ohio Environmental Council