The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) invites locals to vote for the 2025 Pennsylvania River of the Year, writes Colleen McDonough for the PA Organization for Watersheds and Rivers.

Among the nominees is the Perkiomen Creek, a 37.7-mile tributary of the Schuylkill River flowing through Montgomery, Berks, and Lehigh counties. Online voting is open through January 24, 2025.

“This competition not only highlights their unique qualities but also builds community pride and emphasizes their recreational, cultural, and economic importance,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn.

The River of the Year program, managed by the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR), celebrates waterways and raises awareness about conservation. The winning waterway will earn its nominating organization a $10,000 grant to fund events and community activities.

The Perkiomen Creek offers opportunities for recreation and scenic exploration. Competing rivers include the Delaware River, the longest undammed river in the Eastern U.S., and the Youghiogheny River.

“One vote per email is allowed,” said Janet Sweeney of POWR. “This process unites communities around their favorite rivers and highlights our natural treasures.”

Learn more about the Pennsylvania River of the Year contest and vote for the Perkiomen Creek by January 25 at PA Organization for Watersheds and Rivers.