The iconic Hudson River, a significant waterway in New York, is once again at the center of a contentious anchorage expansion debate. Decades ago, dedicated Hudson River advocates successfully halted commercial shipping anchorages expansion between Tappan Zee and Kingston. Today, a recent U.S. Coast Guard shift threatens to reverse that victory, causing ripples of concern among environmentalists and local communities.
Hudson River’s Delicate Estuary at Risk?
John Lipscomb from Riverkeeper, a champion for the Hudson River’s environmental integrity, warned, “This reinterpretation might open the floodgates for vessels to anchor indiscriminately.” Alongside the potential environmental impacts, the close proximity of fuel-laden barges near Roundout Landing in Kingston has also raised safety alarms.
Key Hudson River Concerns Include:
• Drinking water dependency: Numerous mid-Hudson communities source their drinking water from the Hudson.
• Endangered species: The Hudson River is a sanctuary for endangered species like the Atlantic and shortnose sturgeon.
• Investments at stake: Millions invested by communities in waterfront revitalizations might face jeopardy.
Unraveling the Hudson River Anchorage Shift
A July 2023 bulletin presented a fresh perspective on the Port of New York’s boundaries based on a 1921 compact. This places a significant portion of the Hudson River outside previous anchorage rules, raising questions and concerns. “The underlying motive is profit,” commented U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan, highlighting the frequent congestion at the ports of Albany and Coeymans.
Hudson River’s Past Anchorage Challenges
In 2016, the Coast Guard had proposed adding ten new anchorage sites along the Hudson River, from Yonkers to Kingston. However, strong opposition from state agencies, environmental groups, and the public halted these plans by 2019. Additionally, a 2021 Congressional move explicitly prohibited new anchorages in this Hudson River stretch.
What’s Next for Hudson River Anchorage?
Riverkeeper is at the forefront, urging the Coast Guard to pause and reconsider, calling for comprehensive environmental reviews. The Hudson River community, backed by voices like Ryan, is rallying to ensure that the river’s health, safety, and investments aren’t compromised. With previous legislation and public sentiment leaning towards protecting the Hudson River, the upcoming deliberations promise to be pivotal. ok
Hudson River’s Delicate Estuary at Risk?
John Lipscomb from Riverkeeper, a champion for the Hudson River’s environmental integrity, warned, “This reinterpretation might open the floodgates for vessels to anchor indiscriminately.” Alongside the potential environmental impacts, the close proximity of fuel-laden barges near Roundout Landing in Kingston has also raised safety alarms.
Key Hudson River Concerns Include:
• Drinking water dependency: Numerous mid-Hudson communities source their drinking water from the Hudson.
• Endangered species: The Hudson River is a sanctuary for endangered species like the Atlantic and shortnose sturgeon.
• Investments at stake: Millions invested by communities in waterfront revitalizations might face jeopardy.
Unraveling the Hudson River Anchorage Shift
A July 2023 bulletin presented a fresh perspective on the Port of New York’s boundaries based on a 1921 compact. This places a significant portion of the Hudson River outside previous anchorage rules, raising questions and concerns. “The underlying motive is profit,” commented U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan, highlighting the frequent congestion at the ports of Albany and Coeymans.
Hudson River’s Past Anchorage Challenges
In 2016, the Coast Guard had proposed adding ten new anchorage sites along the Hudson River, from Yonkers to Kingston. However, strong opposition from state agencies, environmental groups, and the public halted these plans by 2019. Additionally, a 2021 Congressional move explicitly prohibited new anchorages in this Hudson River stretch.
What’s Next for Hudson River Anchorage?
Riverkeeper is at the forefront, urging the Coast Guard to pause and reconsider, calling for comprehensive environmental reviews. The Hudson River community, backed by voices like Ryan, is rallying to ensure that the river’s health, safety, and investments aren’t compromised. With previous legislation and public sentiment leaning towards protecting the Hudson River, the upcoming deliberations promise to be pivotal. ok
