Water Quality in the East River

The waterway closest to me is the East River. Due to high levels of Phosphorous and Nitrogen in the water, caused by agricultural runoff and wastewater flowing into the river, there has been a loss in sea grass, increased levels of sediment, fish kills, along with many other ecological problems. However, with the institution of the 1972 Clean Water Act, the water quality of the East River has increased. Prior to the act the dissolved oxygen level in the water was very low, leading to the death of many species unable to survive with such little oxygen. However, the level of oxygen in the water is increasing, providing a more sustainable habitat for species. Additionally, there has been a decrease in fecal coliform in the water since dumping raw sewage into the river has been stopped. Despite these changes the species living in the East River are not typical. The presence of anchovy, striped bass, and Atlantic herring is unusual for this area since they are more commonly found in open coastal waters, yet they are in abundance in the east river. Researchers from the Hudson River Park predict that these organisms are present because the shoreline has been altered, destroying the typical habitat that supports creatures which normally dwell in estuary shorelines. Currently, plans are underway to develop a tidal power plant using the strong currents in the east river. The 30 turbines that will be placed in the water are predicted to have very little impact on the aquatic life and provide a more predictable alternative to wind or solar power.