The Nation's River: A report on the Potomac From the U.S. Department of the Interior

A concise yet vivid account of a pivotal moment in American environmental policy, this report captures the nation’s effort in the mid‑1960s to transform the Potomac River into a showcase of scenic beauty and recreational opportunity. Framed by a presidential request, the document follows a coalition of federal agencies, state governors, and local leaders as they assess the river’s challenges and potential.

The narrative unfolds through a series of forward‑looking recommendations: establishing a Potomac National River protected by coordinated legislation, tightening water‑quality standards, completing the Bloomington Dam for drought insurance, and developing a network of reservoirs to sustain municipal and industrial growth. It also emphasizes the importance of citizen participation and a lasting intergovernmental compact to guide future stewardship. Listeners will gain insight into how vision, science, and public will converged to shape a landmark conservation plan.