Pollution Problems at Newburgh Lake
What was the problem at Newburgh Lake?
Although Newburgh Lake did offer recreational opportunities, this resource
suffered from various problems. Since Newburgh Lake was created in the
early 1900's, sediments had accumulated. These sediments, some contaminated
with pollutants, had significantly degraded the recreational quality of
Newburgh Lake. Shallow water depths resulting from the sediment accumulation
and nutrient-rich water led to excessive growth of aquatic plants. Moreover,
some of these sediments contain toxic contaminants such as polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs) that have entered the food chain and were present in
the fish. These contaminated fish resulted in a potential human health
hazard associated with fish consumption. To eliminate this possible hazard,
it is necessary to remove the contaminated sediments.
Why was Newburgh Lake polluted?
Newburgh Lake had become polluted by a variety of sources. Many people
think that industry is the only source of pollution to the Rouge River
and Newburgh Lake. While industrial pollution did exist, we were all part
of the pollution problem.
Part of the contamination of Newburgh Lake is due to polluted storm
water runoff. Storm water runoff is the water that runs over the
ground during a rainstorm or snowmelt. This storm water picks up
pollutants found in fertilizers, pesticides, oil and grease from
cars and bacteria from pet wastes. These pollutants enter the river
either directly or through storm drains. However, this pollutant
source has not been eliminated. Storm water still drains into Newburgh
Lake; therefore, we need to take an active role in preventing future
problems at Newburgh Lake. Click here to
learn what you can do.
Pollution Problems at Newburgh Lake
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