Early returns from Susquehanna Survey illustrate concern for river

​If concern over the health of the Susquehanna River within the Middle Susquehanna watershed was graded on a test, it would be rocking a B+ average -- and that isn't necessarily a good thing.

One of new Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky's first initiatives has been implementing the 2020 Susquehanna Survey.

So far, 96 people have filled out the online questionnaire and have provided some important feedback on potential pollution concerns within the watershed and feedback on programs that will help engage the region and protect resources.

One of the early questions asks survey-takers to rate the their concern for the health/pollution of the Susquehanna on a scale of 1-to-10 with 10 being "extremely concerned" and one representing "not at all."

Forty-seven of the people who took the survey answered with a 10. Another 9 answered with a 7, 8 or 9. Overall, the average score so far is 8.6 out of 10.

The survey so far illustrates the importance of having a Riverkeeper -- someone willing to follow up on potential pollution concerns, someone who can educate the general residents within the watershed on how to cut back on potential pollutants entering our waterways and someone who can educate and excite the next generation of our watershed's stewards.

Please help us address the concern over our river's (and its tributaries') health by donating through 11:59 p.m. tonight (Thursday, March 12) in Raise the Region, where donations can be stretched thanks to a variety of generous sponsors and prizes. Find out more about this fundraiser and donate now by clicking here.

We would also love to have your feedback in our 2020 Susquehanna Survey. Check it out here.