River Watch Blog
All the latest news from the Port Tobacco River and our PTRC community.
Does Your Home Have a Septic System? Here’s What to Know
Learn how to identify and care for your Charles County home’s septic system, avoid costly problems, and protect local waterways. Find help with maintenance.
Autumn on the River: Slow Down and Soak It Up
Discover 7 simple ways Southern Maryland homeowners can reduce pollution, protect local waterways and help keep the Port Tobacco River clean.
7 Ways Southern Maryland Homeowners Can Help Protect Our Waterways
Discover 7 simple ways Southern Maryland homeowners can reduce pollution, protect local waterways and help keep the Port Tobacco River clean.
5 Amazing Animals That Depend on the Port Tobacco River
Meet five amazing animals that depend on the Port Tobacco River and discover how clean water and healthy habitat help local wildlife thrive.
5 Ways to Get Kids Involved on the Port Tobacco River
Looking for family-friendly outdoor activities in Southern Maryland? Discover five fun ways to help kids explore, enjoy and care for the Port Tobacco River.
How Our Septic Systems Protect Our Watershed
What does your septic system have to do with river health? Discover the connection between septic maintenance, water quality, and watershed protection.
The River in Spring: A Season of New Beginnings
Spring returns to the Port Tobacco River with migrating birds, active fish, emerging crabs, and renewed life along the shoreline. Discover what to look for this season.
What We Learned at PTRC’s General Meeting
Key takeaways from PTRC’s General Meeting on the Potomac sewage spill, downstream impacts and what it means for the Port Tobacco River.
January 2026: If You Love Our Amazing River, Join Us
The Port Tobacco River Conservancy remains focused on what matters most: listening to our community, understanding the health of our watershed, and planning a year’s worth of events, activities and initiatives to protect the river we all share.
Winter on the Port Tobacco River: What’s Happening Beneath the Surface
Discover what’s happening beneath the surface of the Port Tobacco River in winter — from aquatic life to quiet processes that support river health.
A Morning Well Spent: Port Tobacco River Cleanup Recap
Photos from the Port Tobacco River Cleanup at Chapel Point State Park. Volunteers, families and local groups came together to make a real difference for our river.
What Lives in (and Around) the Port Tobacco River?
Discover how PTRC’s weekly water testing—powered by volunteers and science — helps keep the Port Tobacco River safe for swimming, paddling, and playing.