A few days ago, I posted a thread on the general forum about this topic but I think it belongs here. I am asking if USMS, in particular, Open Water events and their administrators are doing enough to promote cleaner water in our swimming venues? And if you do promote clean water in your area, as the Manhattan and Boston swims do, how do you do it?
USMS is making a big push to promote Open Water swims for membership but there are some people who might not choose to swim in an event or join USMS because the water has a reputation for being "tainted." We have a big swim in the Detroit River to raise money for cancer (not USMS sanctioned) and I believe it has helped raise some consciousness about the cleanliness of the water there. We also have a swim in Lake Michigan (sponsored by the area Y) in Grand Haven, near the mouth of the Grand River coming out of Grand Rapids, where one potential swimmer said he would never swim there because of the pollution problem with the Grand River.
What can we do as an organization, and individuals, to promote and support clean water? It might enhance participation and membership if we begin to do more in this area. Would love to read some of your ideas!!
Jennifer Parks ("JP"), Michigan Masters
