Pocono Mountains

The Pocono Mountains region contains many of Pennsylvania’s highest quality and most ecologically valuable streams. Despite their economic importance, private interests are scheming to roll back protections for these exceptional waterways.

The Pocono Mountains region’s waterways include headwaters to the Delaware River, the source of drinking water for millions of people. 

The state’s highest quality and most valuable streams are designated “Exceptional Value” (EV) streams. In the Poconos, EV streams support an estimated $22 billion in economic activity throughout the upper and middle Delaware River Basin.

To defend these beautiful waterways, PennFuture joined nearly 40 partner organizations to launch Our Pocono Waters. The campaign unifies businesses, conservationists and residents of the Pocono Mountains region by educating local leaders and community members about the importance of EV stream protections. 

Our Pocono Waters highlights the many ways that clean streams and economic development coexist in a region known for natural beauty and a booming tourism industry. While only 2 percent of Pennsylvania streams are classified as "Exceptional Value," 80 percent of the state’s EV streams are in the Poconos Mountain region, predominantly Monroe, Pike and Wayne counties.

Pledge to defend Our Pocono Waters

Watch former PennFuture campaign manager Emily Baldauff discuss Exceptional Value streams on WNEP

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