Many of us are sticking around the DC area this weekend, some cleaning up from Irene, others of us frantically trying to figure out exactly where to shop for a heavy-duty-poly-portfolioed-non-brad-double-horizontal-pocketed folder, and some just enjoying the decreased traffic flow for a few more days until vacationers return.

For those interested in connecting with the Potomac River here are some ways to celebrate and help protect it at the same time!  Our friends at Calleva outdoor adventures, who support our work protecting the Potomac and who introduce kids and adults to the river through on-the-water summer camps, trainings, and excursions, have a great set-up down at the National Harbor docks. This Saturday and Sunday they will be down on the water offering kayaking, canoeing, sailing, even stand-up paddle-boarding. Their team is great, and they know and care for the river. Be sure to call before you go.

If you are looking for great eats check out Clyde's or Old Ebbitt Grill, two Washington institutions (with 13 locations!) that just so happen to have amazing food as well!  While you are there check out the coasters, log-on your smart phone and take our Pure Potomac River Quiz! It's a great way to raise your river IQ and spread the word about the importance of protecting the Potomac.

Finally, check out the FRESHFARMS Market's website and visit one of the six weekend farmers markets they host across the DC area. Most, if not all of the vendors hail within the Potomac Watershed. Among the farmers (most as colorful as their wares) are some true bright spots for the Potomac River such as Michael James from Blueberry Hill Farms who with his dad and family run a small organic farm in Clear Springs, MD, not more than a ten minute splash into the Potomac River. Their strict refusal to use of pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers ensure that fewer chemicals, phosphorus and nitrogen enter our streams and rivers. Such run-off continues to be the largest threat to the health of the Shenandoah and the Upper Potomac. These conscientious farmers are providing healthy food for us while protecting the river and their expertise makes them important change agents within the larger, more conventional farming community.

So enjoy your weekend and be sure to come back and join our efforts this fall to stay connected to and help protect our river.

With humble deference to Jon Stewart's end-of-show closings I offer your Friday moment of "Potomac River" Zen.

See you on the river!