When searching for the cleanest waterways in New England, one might be surprised to find a top contender in America’s smallest state. The Wood-Pawcatuck River System, stretching across the southwestern corner of Rhode Island and into Connecticut, is widely celebrated for its exceptional water quality and ecological health. This network of rivers and streams stands as a powerful example of successful conservation, earning a prestigious designation that sets it apart from other waterways.
Discover Rhode Island’s Cleanest River: The Wood-Pawcatuck River System
A National Treasure in New England
In 2019, large sections of the Wood-Pawcatuck watershed were officially designated as a National Wild and Scenic River. This is not a title given lightly; it is reserved for rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values, and only a tiny fraction of American rivers have earned this honor. The designation highlights the Wood-Pawcatuck’s pristine condition and its significance as a protected natural resource.
The Secret to Its Purity…