On March 2, 2026, the Washington, D.C., Department of Health lifted the recreational advisory for the Potomac River.  The announcement said, “Consistent water quality testing shows bacterial levels are now within safe ranges for recreation.” For more information, visit doee.dc.gov. For DC Health’s health advisories, visit doh.dc.gov. For information on DC Water’s progress on the Potomac Interceptor repair, visit dcwater.com.

February 26, 2026

On January 19, 2026, a sewer line in Maryland, the Potomac interceptor, ruptured and sent up to 300,000 gallons of raw sewage into the Potomac River. FODM joined 20 other organizations on February 9 on a letter to DC Water asking for answers and accountability.

“Scientists have detected high levels of dangerous pathogens such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus near the pipeline burst, and the spill could threaten wildlife,” reported the February 18 Washington Post. The Potomac Riverkeeper Network and scientists at the University of Maryland are taking water samples.

The National Park Service posted this statement:  "DC Water is managing a sanitary sewer overflow from the Potomac Interceptor near Lock 10. Anyone with questions or in need of support can reach out to DC Water’s 24-Hour Command Center at (202) 612-3400." Visit News | DC Water.

Virginia’s advisory is here: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/news/potomac-sewage-spill/

To see the letter asking for answers and accountability, click here