Background & Criteria

About the Report

Each year since 1986, American Rivers and dozens of partners in the river movement have released the America’s Most Endangered Rivers™ report to spotlight those rivers across the country facing critical and near-term threats. The report is not a list of the nation’s “worst” or most polluted rivers, but rather it highlights ten rivers confronted by decisions in the coming year that could determine their future.

Recognizing that the threats facing the listed rivers are seldom unique, each report includes a special chapter that explores a broader issue suggested by the rivers on the list that year. In recent years, we have examined the consequences to rivers of energy development, sewage pollution and overdevelopment.

This report is more than a warning: it offers solutions and identifies those who have the power to save the river.

Criteria

American Rivers solicits nominations from hundreds of river groups, conservation organizations, outdoor enthusiasts, and concerned citizens. Our staff and scientific advisors review the nominations for the following criteria:

• The magnitude of the threat to the river;
• A major decision point in the coming year;
• The regional and national significance of the river

Why are rivers removed from the list?

Clearly, many rivers across the country face myriad threats and all deserve attention and action. With so many nominations, it is impossible to spotlight every river. In addition, rivers previously listed are removed from the list if the threat has already significantly diminished or if there is no major action in the upcoming year that could intensify or ease the threat.