For forty years we have known that the sediments in Rochester Embayment were loaded with metals and phosphorus. In 1985, the Water Quality Board found that heavy metals, toxic organic substances and contaminated sediments were so pervasive that they listed it as an Area of Concern. After years of industrial and some municipal waste making its way into the water, fish grew tumors, the drinking water became smelly and yucky, and beaches closed. The Monroe County Department of Health has been implementing a remedial action plan but it sure is taking a long time to clean up the Embayment. Forty years, is simply too long to wait for nice tap water, tasty, healthy fish and a dip in the lake. Now, the Great Lakes Legacy Act reauthorization could provide But more money and programs – it that happens the clean up could speed up.

To read more about this Area of Concern, click here to go to the EPA’s website.

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