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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.
Last Updated: 12/7/01

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The Rouge River National Wet Weather Demonstration Project is funded, in part, by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Grants #XP995743-01, -02, -03, -04, -05, -06, -08 and C-264000-01.