The Backstory: How Did We Get Here?
In 2016, the community of Newburgh, New York, was hit with unsettling news: Washington Lake, the city’s primary water supply, was contaminated with PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances). These chemicals, often used in firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics, are known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. The contamination led to a switch in the water supply, with water now being sourced from New York City’s reservoirs via the Catskill Aqueduct.
While the immediate crisis was averted, the long-term problem remained: How do we clean up Washington Lake and restore it as a safe, sustainable water source for Newburgh? The journey to answer this question has been a complex one, involving multiple stakeholders, from local advocacy groups to state and federal agencies.
To help you navigate this intricate landscape, we’ve produced a video featuring key voices in the ongoing remediation efforts. Below, we delve into who these stakeholders are and what they do to bring clean water back to Newburgh.
Jennifer Rawlison – Newburgh Clean Water Project
Jennifer Rawlison is a local advocate who has been tirelessly working to bring attention to the water crisis in Newburgh. Born and raised in the community, she understands the deep-rooted health impacts linked to PFAS. As a member of the Newburgh Clean Water Project, she advocates for full remediation of the watershed and a return to the original water supply from Washington Lake. Her grassroots efforts underscore the importance of community involvement in tackling environmental issues.
By understanding the roles and perspectives of each stakeholder, we can better appreciate the complexities involved in restoring Newburgh’s water supply. Community involvement remains crucial in holding these stakeholders accountable and ensuring that the cleanup process is expedited. We hope this video and blog post serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding who is involved in the remediation efforts and what they do to restore clean water to Newburgh.
Please watch the video to hear directly from these stakeholders. Your voice matters, and together, we can work towards a cleaner, safer future for Newburgh.
By understanding the roles and perspectives of each stakeholder, we can better appreciate the complexities involved in restoring Newburgh’s water supply. Community involvement remains crucial in holding these stakeholders accountable and ensuring that the cleanup process is expedited. We hope this video and blog post serve as a comprehensive guide to understanding who is involved in the remediation efforts and what they do to restore clean water to Newburgh.
Spanish Version
Your voice matters, and together, we can work towards a cleaner, safer future for Newburgh.
Sources:
- EPA on PFAS
- New York State DEC on Water Quality
- Hudson River Sloop Clearwater
- Riverkeeper
- Newburgh Clean Water Project
Feel free to share this blog post and video to keep our community informed and engaged!
