The Week’s River Report: Extreme drought on the map and new record low flows
The U.S. Drought Monitor Map released this morning has a small area in the southwest corner in Extreme Drought conditions (red) with 92% in Severe Drought conditions (dark orange).
The dry conditions in Virginia have prompted several local governments to institute burn bans due to increased wildfire risk.
New record low flows continue to be set. Today, the USGS gage at Little Falls is 3,570 cubic feet per second (cfs), while the 96-year historical low for this time is 3,820 cfs. That low was set in 1969, not coincidentally around the same time that ICPRB’s Section for Cooperative Water Supply Operations on the Potomac (CO-OP) was established. This is the section of ICPRB tasked with drought monitoring and operations.
ICPRB was originally established in 1940 to address water pollution issues, but in 1970 — after several years of extreme drought — the compact was amended to empower the organization to work on water resources, with the understanding that a coordinated operation of water resources across jurisdictions will create a more resilient system overall. CO-OP is tasked with drought monitoring and operations.
Join ICPRB for a Catch, Clean and Cook Fishing Clinic
Curious about fishing but unsure where to start?
On June 6, ICPRB will be partnering with Patricia Clement, aka Rivah Sistah, and NoVA Parks for a fishing clinic at Pohick Bay Regional Park. Attendees will learn to catch, clean and cook their own fish. This clinic is designed for first-timers over the age of 16.
“It’s an introduction to a lifelong skill that can bring you peace, joy, and even food on your table,” shares Clement.
No fishing license needed as it is a fee-free fishing weekend in Virginia.
The early bird registration cost is $15. They are selling fast, so sign up soon!
Where the rain goes
An ICPRB map is featured in an information kiosk about stormwater in the Villages of Urbana community in Frederick, MD. The map highlights the Potomac River basin within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed while the kiosk highlights the importance of stormwater infrastructure and reducing pollution to protect our waterways.
The sign reminds residents to pick up litter and pet waste, use carwash facilities, and limit pesticides, fertilizer applications, and road salt to protect waterways.
ICPRB has a variety of static, printed, and interactive/online maps on our website.
Upcoming seminar – PFAS, Spills, and Beyond: Water Quality Challenges in the Potomac Basin
Join ICPRB and AWRA-NCRS on May 14th, 4:30 – 7:00pm, for an evening of expert presentations and discussion on water quality challenges facing the Potomac Basin. From PFAS contamination to the historic January 2026 sewage spill, our region’s water resources are facing unprecedented pressures. This event brings together researchers and practitioners to share the latest science and on-the-ground perspectives.
Registration fee (dinner served): $15 for AWRA-NCRS members / $20 for non-members / Free for students