Rivers are more than water; they are life, memory, movement.
At Stroud Water Research Center, we uncover the science behind these living systems so we can all help protect them.
You can make a difference protecting our water. Step in and start your journey — follow the rivers.
Rivers Touch Everything — and Everyone
Most of us live within one mile of a river or stream (source: NOAA). From fishing to paddling to hiking along riverbanks, millions of Americans participate in river recreation each year. But they’re more than playgrounds.
These rich and dynamic ecosystems can host thousands of invertebrate species, including mayflies, stoneflies, and caddisflies, which are vital for the aquatic food web. The Delaware River Watershed is home to more than 100 fish species, including endangered or threatened species such as the Atlantic Sturgeon (source: DRBC). How we live on land impacts their health.
Twenty-four percent of the world’s freshwater fish, dragonfly, damselfly, crab, crayfish, and shrimp species are at high risk of extinction.
Delaware’s rivers and streams are the most polluted of any state in the nation, with 97% of stream miles impaired for one or more uses.
Source: Environmental Integrity Project
A third of Pennsylvania’s waterways don’t meet minimum water quality standards for aquatic life, recreation, fish consumption, or drinking.
Follow the Rivers With Us
Be the first to hear about river-saving science, events, and simple actions you can take to protect fresh water.
Test Your River IQ: Who’s Living in Your Stream?
Trout, mayflies, salamanders, and the elusive river otter — your local stream is full of surprises. Take this fun, 2-minute quiz and discover what lives just beneath the surface. You might be amazed!
The Science That Preserves and Restores Our Rivers
For over five decades, the Stroud Center has led pioneering research into the science of streams and rivers — restoring watersheds, advising policy, and helping communities protect fresh water for generations to come.
We’ve studied how land use affects water quality, helped farmers improve soil health, and supported families in safeguarding their drinking water. Because when we care for rivers, we care for all life that flows from them.
Join Us and Make a Difference
The Stroud Center’s mission is to advance knowledge and stewardship of freshwater systems through global research, education, and watershed restoration.
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Build your corporate sustainability while helping to preserve and restore rivers.
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From tree plantings to science talks, there’s a way for everyone to get involved.
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Private funding from people like you makes our research and outreach possible.
How the Stroud Center Helped NFL Legend Dick Vermeil Restore His Chester County Ranch
When Hall of Fame coach Dick Vermeil saw erosion and runoff threatening the creek on his Pennsylvania ranch, he turned to the Stroud Center. Together, we reforested the stream and protected the watershed.
Be the first to hear about river-saving science, events, and simple actions you can take to protect fresh water.