Protecting U.S. Rivers Benefits People, Habitat, and Economies
Rivers and wetlands in the United States provide myriad benefits including, climate regulation, clean drinking water, fish and wildlife habitat, recreation, and economic, cultural, and scientific opportunities. But despite these advantages, federal and state authorities have formally protected very few of the 3.5 million miles of U.S. rivers. Today, less than 1% of rivers are preserved as part of the National Wild and Scenic River System.
Additionally, more than 90,000 dams and diversion systems have altered the natural flow of rivers nationwide, degrading water quality, interrupting the distribution of sediments and nutrients, and harming fish populations and the communities that depend on them for their livelihoods or survival.
For more information on Pew’s work with partners across the country to secure river and wetlands protections, visit Safeguarding the Nation’s Rivers.
Spotlight on Mental Health
MORE FROM PEW
Explore Pew’s new and improved
Fiscal 50 interactive
Your state's stats are more accessible than ever with our new and improved Fiscal 50 interactive:
- Maps, trends, and customizable charts
- 50-state rankings
- Analysis of what it all means
- Shareable graphics and downloadable data
- Proven fiscal policy strategies
Welcome to the new Fiscal 50
Key changes include:
- State pages that help you keep track of trends in your home state and provide national and regional context.
- Interactive indicator pages with highly customizable and shareable data visualizations.
- A Budget Threads feature that offers Pew’s read on the latest state fiscal news.