Reader concerned about protecting Dunkard Creek
In 2009, dangerous pollutants and favorable growth conditions allowed the bloom of a toxic algae that killed thousands of fish, mussels, and salamanders that made up the unique ecosystem of Dunkard Creek.
Well on its way to recovery, Dunkard Creek is a beautiful fishing location with scenic overlooks of steep valleys and surrounding hills covered in lush vegetation. Nearby and intersecting trails like the Warrior and Catawba give outdoors enthusiasts a way to enjoy the creek on foot.
It’s great news that the Dunkard Creek will finally get the protections it needs. Today, top Obama administration officials signed a new rule that will restore safeguards to small streams and headwaters like Dunkard Creek that have been vulnerable to pollution and development for years. The Clean Water Rule will protect drinking water for over eight million Pennsylvanians, and represents the biggest victory for clean water in a decade.
Unfortunately, major polluters, including the oil and gas industry and developers, are pushing the U.S. Senate to block it. We need Senator Casey to continue standing up to polluters and support this effort to protect our drinking water and Dunkard Creek for generations and Memorial Days to come.
Lucia Herrmann
PennEnvironment Clean Water Coordinator
Pittsburgh