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Delaware Riverwatch: Fall 2025
NEWS
Finalizing Stricter Water Standards-- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing new water quality standards for a 38-mile stretch between Philadelphia and Wilmington to boost dissolved oxygen levels. This is critical for the survival of endangered species like the Atlantic sturgeon and other aquatic life. An April 2025 report by Environment America noted that the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) dumps approximately 15 billion gallons of untreated sewage and stormwater into the river annually. This pollution has created a dead zone in the river around Philadelphia for over 130 days a year. DetailsPositive Trends in the Upper Basin--The 2025 "State of the Basin" report from the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) found that the water quality in the Upper Delaware River is generally in good condition and is improving in some indicators. Details
New Visitor Center at Prime Hook-- In April 2025, Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge opened a new, 2000-square foot visitor center. The center is operated by the Friends of Prime Hook, the cooperating association of the refuge, managing a gift shop with educational and nature-related items. Proceeds from gift shop sales, membership dues, and donations help the Friends group accomplish its mission. The new visitor center at Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge was funded through a combination of federal Great American Outdoors Act money and federal highway funds. The project, which cost approximately $3.7 million, is part of a broader federal initiative to modernize and streamline infrastructure at wildlife refuges and parks. This includes reducing building footprints and improving energy efficiency—especially relevant since the old Prime Hook geothermal system never worked properly. Details