World Rivers Day
World Rivers Day is an annual event celebrated on the fourth Sunday of September to raise awareness of the need to protect rivers and their ecosystems. It was founded in 2005 by American river conservationist Mark Angelo.
September 24 is chosen for World Rivers Day because it is a time when people are more likely to think about the environment and how they can help protect it. It is also when people are more likely to be outdoors enjoying nature.
World Rivers Day is an opportunity to celebrate rivers’ beauty and learn about the threats they face. It is also a time to take action to protect rivers. There are many things that individuals can do to help, such as reducing their consumption of water, supporting river conservation organizations, and getting involved in local river protection efforts.
Rivers provide us with water for drinking, irrigation, and transportation. They also support a wide variety of plants and animals.
World Rivers Day is important to raise awareness of the need to protect rivers. By taking action, we can help to ensure that these vital ecosystems will continue to provide us with the many benefits they offer.
See also: Bronx River Dolphins are Back!
How to celebrate:
- Plan on attending an event near you, ranging from stream cleanups and fish enhancement projects to educational outings and community riverside celebrations.
- Switch to earth-friendly hair and body products and biodegradable cleaning products.
- Celebrate your local river by sailing, kayaking or canoeing.
- Get in touch with local conservation groups and organizations.
- Learn more about the world’s longest rivers and how they have helped share history.
Fun Facts:
- Marc Angelo has travelled along close to 1,000 rivers around the world.
- There are approximately 165 major rivers in the world.
- Russia has the most rivers in the world, with a total of 36.
- The longest river in the world is the Nile in Africa, and the entire length of the river is 6,650km.
- The deepest river is the Zaire River, about 700 feet deep.
- The shortest river is the Roe River in Montana which is only 201 feet long.
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