Potomac Riverwatch: Winter 2021
NEWS
River Levels Decline-- A dry November left the Potomac and its tributaries with low stream levels, but the chances of a drought are low, according to the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin. High precipitation earlier in the year, especially in October, led to high flow levels in the fall months. November was still one of the driest months on record, however, with less than an inch of rain at National Airport. ICPRB predicted a low probability of a need for releases from Potomac reservoirs through spring 2022. DetailsHoliday Events on the River--Several popular Potomac-related events returned this year, following a year of cancellations and postponements. In Alexandria, Va., the annual Boat Parade was held in early December, featuring sail and power boats decked out with lights. Another Alexandria favorite, the Waterskiing Santa, a tradition since the 1980s, is planning to return to the river on Christmas eve. More information.
Captain White Ships Out--After nearly 50 years in business, Captain White Seafood City packed up their barges at the Wharf in Southwest DC in early November. Two of the three barges that make up its floating open-air fish market were detached from the pier and towed by boat down the Potomac River. Captain White will continue limited operations at the Wharf from the third barge until December. The seafood vendor plans to eventually relocate to another yet-to-be-announced location in the area. The closure of the Fish Market location was related to a dispute with the developer of the Wharf project nearby.Details