Jimmy Carter’s Conservation Legacy Inspires Pennsylvania River Protection

Former President Jimmy Carter‘s lifelong dedication to environmental conservation has left a lasting impact on Pennsylvania‘s efforts to protect its rivers and natural resources. Carter, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 100, was a passionate advocate for safeguarding waterways, a legacy that continues to inspire initiatives like the Pennsylvania Rivers Conservation Program.

As governor of Georgia, Carter championed the protection of the Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers, and as president, he strengthened the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, which preserves free-flowing waterways with exceptional natural, cultural, and recreational value. His commitment to conservation has influenced Pennsylvania’s efforts to study rivers, improve watershed health, and connect communities to water-based outdoor recreation opportunities.

Pennsylvania boasts an abundance of wild and scenic waterways, including the federally designated Lower Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers, as well as state-designated rivers like French Creek and the Lower Brandywine. These waterways, along with the state’s extensive network of trails and conservation areas, provide countless opportunities for paddling, fishing, and bird watching.

“I think it’s very important for all Americans to take a stand, a positive stand, in conservation,” Carter once said, emphasizing his belief in protecting natural resources for public enjoyment. His leadership has inspired the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to plant thousands of acres of streamside trees, reduce pollution, and create wildlife habitats.

The Susquehanna River, the largest tributary of the Chesapeake Bay, has seen significant improvements in water quality, thanks to Pennsylvania’s sustained conservation efforts. The Chesapeake Bay recently achieved its highest water quality rating in more than two decades, with the Upper Chesapeake — fed by the Susquehanna — recognized as one of its healthiest areas.

Carter’s legacy as a conservationist continues to resonate, particularly his commitment to environmental stewardship and protecting clean water. His vision has inspired initiatives like the Pennsylvania Rivers Conservation Program, which has allocated tens of millions of dollars to projects enhancing water access and conservation.

“President Carter’s legacy as a conservationist continues to inspire us,” said Cindy Adams Dunn, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “We remain dedicated to honoring his vision by safeguarding our waterways for the enjoyment and benefit of current and future generations.”