American Rivers today released its annual list of America’s Most Endangered Rivers. American Rivers named the Potomac River, known as ‘the nation’s river’ as it flows through the capital, the most endangered in the country. While the Potomac is cleaner than it used to be, the river is still threatened by urban and agricultural pollution– and it could get much worse if Congress rolls back critical clean water safeguards.
Before the Clean Water Act was enacted in 1972, the Potomac was highly polluted. As a result of Clean Water Act, the Potomac and rivers across the country are cleaner and safer for drinking, boating, and fishing.
American Rivers called on Congress to kill any legislation that weakens the Clean Water Act or prevents the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from restoring protections for small streams and wetlands under the Act. American Rivers also called on the Obama Administration to finalize guidance clarifying the scope of the Clean Water Act and issue a rule-making to ensure that all waters get the protections Americans expect and deserve.
Ozone water treatment plays an important role in treating both wastewater that flows into rivers as well as treating the water for drinking that comes out of the rivers. Increased use of ozone as well as other advanced water treatment technologies can enhance river water quality and protect public health.