(Mid-Ohio Valley Climate Corner - Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

The Ohio River Basin covers a vast region that encompasses portions of 14 states and homelands of over 40 federally recognized Tribal Nations. The waters of the basin supply drinking water to more than 30 million people in the states. The Ohio River and the many local streams, creeks, lakes and wetlands are the foundation of the region’s economy and culture. Yet, this vast region is currently under siege, as it faces continuous challenges and threats such as aging infrastructure, extreme flooding, sewage contamination, and legacy toxic pollution. We can still hope for our region if we work toward manageable solutions that protect drinking water, public health, jobs and quality of life.

A newly released draft report, “Healthy Waters, Healthy Communities, Healthy Economies,” offers a bold, scientifically grounded vision to restore and protect this national treasure. The document, a collaboration led by the Ohio River Basin Alliance, National Wildlife Federation and the University of Louisville’s Envirome Institute, outlines the challenges and provides a roadmap for recovery. But more importantly, it issues a clear call for immediate, coordinated and federally supported action.

The report identifies nine core challenges plaguing the region: crumbling water infrastructure, persistent toxic pollution, widespread runoff, mining legacies, altered hydrology, habitat loss, invasive species and extreme weather events. More than 69% of assessed stream miles and 64% of assessed lake acres fail to meet state water quality standards. In short, the system is breaking down, and it’s hitting the most vulnerable communities the hardest.

Yet, the solutions are within reach. The restoration plan draws inspiration from successful restoration models like the Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay initiatives. The Ohio River Basin region must have increased federal investment. There is a need for robust monitoring and research, while providing the necessary technical assistance to inform future actions. If there is holistic regional coordination across states and Tribal Nations, this will ensure communities of all sizes and income levels can benefit from the restoration efforts in the Ohio River Basin.

This is not just about the environment; it’s about equity, public health and economic prosperity. The plan emphasizes restoring rivers while revitalizing communities. Investments in clean water infrastructure and workforce development can yield thousands of jobs and unlock billions in economic growth. Simultaneously, prioritizing nature-based solutions and green infrastructure will strengthen climate resilience.

The Ohio River Basin may not yet enjoy the national attention that other iconic water bodies command, but it should. The region’s ecological, cultural and economic value is undeniable, and its health is inseparable from that of its people.

Public input on the draft is solicited. The Ohio River Basin restoration report and the ability to submit a public comment can be found at ohioriverbasinalliance.org. Citizens, local leaders and policymakers must engage now, while there is still time to shape a shared vision for clean water, healthy communities and sustainable prosperity. The future of the Ohio River Basin depends on us. To the communities in the Mid-Ohio Valley and beyond, let’s seize this opportunity together!

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Charlise Robinson is Ohio River coordinator, WV Rivers.