ORB JANUARY 2026 Newsletter

As we head into 2026, momentum around the Ohio River Basin has never felt more tangible. This latest membership update from the Ohio River Basin Alliance offers a snapshot of a growing movement—one that’s bringing together communities, conservation groups, policymakers, and advocates around a shared vision of healthy waters, healthy communities, and healthy economies. From federal policy progress to on-the-ground collaboration, it’s clear that the Basin is entering a pivotal chapter 

Inside the update, you’ll find encouraging signs of forward motion: expanding bipartisan support for the Ohio River Restoration Program Act, a robust slate of winter webinars focused on funding and watershed recovery, and plans already underway for the 4th annual Ohio River Basin Hill Day in Washington, D.C. Taken together, these efforts reflect more than just activity—they point to a coordinated, basin-wide push to turn long-standing ideas into lasting impact. Below, we’ve highlighted key takeaways and why they matter right now