Paddling America's Most Endangered River: The Mighty Susquehanna

Gila River Elegy: Paddling America's Most Endangered River

by Jon Fuller

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	188219 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	416 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Susquehanna River, the longest river on the East Coast of the United States, has been designated as "America's Most Endangered River" by American Rivers, a non-profit conservation organization. Flowing over 450 miles from its headwaters in New York to the Chesapeake Bay, the Susquehanna is a crucial waterway that provides drinking water to over 6 million people, supports a vast agricultural industry, and offers a sanctuary for diverse wildlife.

A River of Historical Significance

The Susquehanna River has played a pivotal role in the history of the United States. Native American tribes, including the Iroquois Confederacy, lived along its shores for centuries, and the river served as a major transportation route for fur traders and settlers during the colonial period. The river's name, derived from the Native American word "Sasquahanna," translates to "the long river" or "the winding river."

Paddling the Susquehanna

The Susquehanna River offers a unique paddling experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Its calm waters and gentle currents make it suitable for kayakers and canoeists of all skill levels. Paddling the river allows visitors to immerse themselves in its pristine beauty and observe its abundant wildlife, including bald eagles, osprey, and river otters.

Along the river's banks, paddlers will encounter charming towns and historic sites. The town of Wyalusing, Pennsylvania, is home to the Wyalusing Rocks, a series of towering cliffs that overlook the Susquehanna. The town of Sunbury, Pennsylvania, boasts the Sunbury Lock, the only remaining lock on the Susquehanna's once-navigable channel.

Threats to the Susquehanna

Despite its significance, the Susquehanna River faces numerous threats that jeopardize its health and vitality. These threats include:

• Pollution: Agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and wastewater treatment plant effluents contribute to water pollution in the river, harming aquatic life and affecting water quality.
• Habitat Loss: Urban development, agriculture, and deforestation have resulted in the loss of riparian buffers and critical wildlife habitats along the river.
• Invasive Species: Invasive species, such as the Asian Carp and zebra mussels, pose threats to native fish populations and the river's ecosystem.
• Climate Change: Climate change is predicted to increase the frequency and intensity of storms, leading to flooding and erosion along the river's banks.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation organizations, such as the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, are working to protect the Susquehanna River. These efforts include:

• Water Quality Monitoring: Monitoring water quality and identifying sources of pollution helps to protect the health of the river.
• Habitat Restoration: Restoring riparian buffers, wetlands, and other critical habitats helps to protect water quality and provide habitat for wildlife.
• Invasive Species Management: Controlling the spread of invasive species helps to protect native fish populations and the river's ecosystem.
• Climate Change Adaptation: Planning for climate change impacts, such as flooding and erosion, helps to mitigate the effects of climate change on the river.

Paddling the Susquehanna River is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to connect with the river's rich history, appreciate its natural beauty, and witness the importance of protecting our waterways. As America's Most Endangered River, the Susquehanna faces numerous threats, but conservation efforts are underway to preserve its health and vitality for future generations. By raising awareness and supporting conservation initiatives, we can ensure that this iconic river continues to flow for centuries to come.

Gila River Elegy: Paddling America's Most Endangered River

by Jon Fuller

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	188219 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	416 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE