Clean water is a fundamental need, and rivers touch every aspect of our lives. Telling positive stories about rivers is an important part of our strategy to ensure every river is clean and healthy for people and wildlife. So it was a pleasure to team up with CBS News on a significant package of stories for Earth Month.
Together, these stories provide an excellent overview of the challenges and opportunities facing our nation’s rivers. They remind viewers about the vital role rivers play in providing our drinking water, supporting fish and wildlife, powering our economy, ensuring healthy communities, and creating endless opportunities for beauty, connection, and joy.
“An American River” – a documentary about the Delaware River
The CBS News crew traveled from source to mouth down the Delaware, meeting people along the way who work on, and speak up for, the river. The documentary is a heartfelt and hopeful look at the vital work underway to protect the river and all the life it supports.
Paddling his canoe, Adam Schellhammer, Mid-Atlantic Director for American Rivers reflects, “It’s not just about fun… from a very basic survival need, we need to protect our waterways.”
America’s Most Endangered Rivers® of 2025
This year’s list of America’s Most Endangered Rivers® is a call to action for clean water and public safety. CBS showcased the campaign with thoughtful news coverage, interviews with American Rivers leaders, and a spotlight on New Jersey’s Passaic River.
Local reports highlighting river threats and solutions
All 14 CBS-owned stations produced local reports highlighting regional rivers’ threats, and had great examples of river restoration. From Maryland to Texas to California, here are some inspiring stories:
Take action and support your river
If you feel inspired after watching these videos, there are great ways to help:
- Take action for America’s Most Endangered Rivers of 2025
- Donate to American Rivers to support our river protection efforts nationwide
- Speak up for your own river: contact your local decision makers and encourage them to be river champions. Find your local river group and support their important work.
