Pennsylvania Scenic Rivers facts for kids

Pennsylvania Scenic Rivers are special rivers in Pennsylvania. They are chosen because they are very beautiful and important for nature. A law called the Pennsylvania Scenic Rivers Act helps protect these rivers. This law was first made in 1972 and updated in 1982.

Different groups, like state agencies and local conservation groups, help take care of these rivers. When we talk about a "river" for this law, it means any flowing water. This includes big rivers, small streams, creeks, and even small lakes that are part of a river system.

How Rivers Are Classified

The Pennsylvania Scenic Rivers Act sorts rivers into five main groups. This helps decide how special they are and how they should be protected. The groups depend on how much human activity is around the river, how easy it is to reach, and if its water flow is changed.

Wild Rivers

Wild rivers are like nature's untouched masterpieces! They are super wild and natural. You usually can't reach them by car, only by walking trails. Their surroundings are mostly untouched by people, and their water is very clean.

Scenic Rivers

Scenic rivers are also very natural and beautiful. They are mostly undeveloped, but you might find roads that let you get to them in some spots. They are not blocked by dams.

Pastoral Rivers

Pastoral rivers flow through areas that look like peaceful countryside. They might have old mill dams that have been fixed up. Farmers might use some of the water for their crops or animals, but this doesn't spoil the natural, peaceful look of the area.

Recreational Rivers

Recreational rivers are easy to get to. You might see some buildings or development along their banks. In the past, these rivers might have had dams or had their water flow changed. People can enjoy many activities here.

Modified Recreational Rivers

Modified recreational rivers are those where the water flow might be controlled by things like dams upstream. Small dams are allowed as long as they don't make the river wider than its natural banks. These rivers are meant for people to use and enjoy, as long as it doesn't harm the river or its surroundings.

List of Pennsylvania Scenic Rivers

Here is a list of the rivers that have been named Pennsylvania Scenic Rivers:

• Bear Run
• French Creek
• Lehigh River
• LeTort Spring Run
• Lick Run
• Lower Brandywine Creek
• Octoraro Creek
• Pine Creek
• Schuylkill River
• Stony Creek
• Tucquan Creek
• Tulpehocken Creek
• Yellow Breeches Creek