Delaware Riverwatch: Winter 2026
NEWS
EPA raises oxygen and water‑quality standards--In late September, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized the rule increasing dissolved oxygen requirements in a 38-mile stretch of the river between Philadelphia and Wilmington, where the water was once so polluted that it stopped fish from migrating upstream because it contained almost no oxygen. More information.Sewage pollution concerns in Philadelphia & South Jersey--A report published by PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center says officials in Philadelphia — as well as leaders in Camden, Gloucester and Camden County, New Jersey — need to do more to keep local waterways clean for recreation and wildlife. More information.
Delaware Currents shuts down--Delaware Currents, a non-profit online news outlet focused on the Delaware River watershed, officially ceased operations on December 31, 2025, after more than 10 years of publication. Founded by Meg McGuire, the site provided in-depth coverage of environmental, scientific, and community issues, with the website remaining active for about a year after closure. More information.
Transportation & infrastructure notes--Bridge tolls on eight Delaware River crossings will increase in 2026. Tolls on the eight Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission (DRJTBC) bridges increased around January 1, 2026, with passenger E-ZPass rates rising from $1.50 to $2, and Toll-By-Plate jumping from $2 to $5; larger vehicles saw per-axle E-ZPass rates go from $2 to $6.50, and Toll-By-Plate from $3 to $8, with the DRJTBC citing decreased pandemic-related traffic and funding needs for maintenance as reasons for the hikes. More information.