Lots of talk these days about stripping the budget of the EPA... some would even nix the agency altogether.
Since swimming in polluted water is certainly a safety issue, I think this is a topic that should transcend politics (but what do I know?)
Should USMS add a statement of support for a healthy aquatic world to the mission?
As one who spends a hell of a lot of time in bodies of water that were much more compromised two decades ago than they are today, its easy to guess where I stand. Much progress has been made toward restoring the health of our waterways, but there is a long way to go.
In addition to other open water swims, I swim in the Great Ohio River Swim in Cincinnati annually. In addition to being a fun event, I do so to do my part in improving the image of the Ohio River as a spot for recreation. I think too many area residents have dismissed it as a cess pool for so long, they don't take interest in issues that affect the water quality of the river. Truthfully, it's not pretty especially near the shore, and 3 years ago, the event was postponed when heavy rains raised the fecal count in the water.
As open water swimming grows in popularity with more and more USMS sanctioned events, I find it natural that USMS would take a stand for clean water.
In addition to other open water swims, I swim in the Great Ohio River Swim in Cincinnati annually. In addition to being a fun event, I do so to do my part in improving the image of the Ohio River as a spot for recreation. I think too many area residents have dismissed it as a cess pool for so long, they don't take interest in issues that affect the water quality of the river. Truthfully, it's not pretty especially near the shore, and 3 years ago, the event was postponed when heavy rains raised the fecal count in the water.
As open water swimming grows in popularity with more and more USMS sanctioned events, I find it natural that USMS would take a stand for clean water.
