Pennsylvanians can cast their vote to determine which waterway will be crowned the state’s 2026 River of the Year, with three nominees competing for the annual honor.
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources on Tuesday opened online voting for the contest, which runs through 5 p.m. on Jan. 16, 2026. Residents can choose among Chillisquaque Creek, the Conestoga River, and the lower portion of the Schuylkill River in the greater Philadelphia region.
“Each of these worthy waterways makes a unique case to be the top river for 2026, and I am excited to see which one wins,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “I enjoy this annual competition for the community pride it builds and the focus it provides for the recreational, cultural, and economic importance of our rivers. Vote now and make your voice heard.”
The Conestoga River flows more than 61 miles before joining the Susquehanna River below the Safe Harbor Dam. One of Lancaster County’s most scenic waterways, it draws visitors for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing.
Chillisquaque Creek is a 20-mile tributary of the West Branch of Susquehanna River. Its 112-square-mile watershed spans Montour, Northumberland, Columbia, and Lycoming counties and features numerous natural and cultural points of interest along with outdoor recreation and fishing opportunities.
The lower Schuylkill River stretches 36 miles from Phoenixville in Chester County to the river’s mouth near the Schuylkill Navy Yard in Philadelphia. The waterway serves as a destination for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and boating in Pennsylvania’s most densely populated region.
The Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers administers the River of the Year program with DCNR funding. The program celebrates the state’s waterways while raising awareness of conservation needs.
“We’re excited to once again launch the public online voting process for the 2026 Pennsylvania River of the Year,” said Janet Sweeney of POWR. “As more people connect with the outdoors and deepen their appreciation for Pennsylvania’s remarkable waterways, the River of the Year vote offers a fun and meaningful way to show support for your favorite river.”
Votes can be cast through the POWR website, pawatersheds.org, with one vote permitted per email address. The winning river’s nominating organization will receive a $15,000 DCNR grant to fund year-long celebrations, including paddling events and community activities. A commemorative poster will also be created to honor the 2026 River of the Year.