FALL 2006 Board of Directors DEAR FRIENDS OF RIVERKEEPER, George Hornig, Chair Energy – how it is produced and how it is consumed – has quickly ascend- Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Vice Chair Peggy Cullen, Secretary ed onto the world stage as the defining issue of the 21st century, which is Dr. Howard A. Rubin, Treasurer Alex Matthiessen, President particularly disquieting given that a compelling argument could be made Doni Belau, Executive Committee Amanda Hearst, Executive Committee that water – its scarcity and quality — will, in fact, be the defining issue. John McEnroe, Executive Committee John Abplanalp Americans, who make up a mere 5% of the world’s population, account William Abranowicz Lorraine Bracco for over 25% of the world’s energy use, and consequently, over a quarter Binta Niambi Brown Ann Colley of the planet’s green house gas emissions. The impacts associated with fos- Hamilton Fish Robert Gabrielson sil fuel use have become epidemic. Our addiction to oil is driving much of Anne Hearst Karen Kelly Klopp America’s failed foreign policy, causing war, funding terrorists, polluting Michael Richter Dennis Rivera our air and water, destabilizing American democracy, and most frightening of all, warming our planet Ronald A. DeSilva, Emeritus Arthur Glowka, Emeritus – possibly irreversibly. Henry Lewis Kinglsey, Emeritus Richard R. Knabel, Emeritus While we waste energy without a thought or a care — and our leaders in Washington fight to Staff protect the narrow financial interests of big oil and nuclear power — other countries are devoting ALEX MATTHIESSEN Hudson Riverkeeper themselves to figuring out how to use energy more efficiently and to radically reduce their contribution & President to global warming. Not only are Europe and Japan taking responsibility for the collective mess we’ve ROBERT F. KENNEDY, JR. Chief Prosecuting Attorney made but they are going to profit from it economically as they develop new technologies and markets ALLISON CHAMBERLAIN Development Associate that allow us to use energy more efficiently and to produce it more sustainably. GWENDOLYN CHAMBERS Membership Communications Officer Fortunately, a growing number of forward-looking states and companies – backed by an increasingly

RENEE CHO Indian Point Campaign Associate alarmed and engaged citizenry – are taking matters into their own hands and coming up with solutions TARA D’ANDREA to America’s energy crisis. In our cover story, Indian Point campaign director Lisa Rainwater describes Grants Manager

LEILA GOLDMARK the impact our current short-sighted energy policy is having on the Hudson and on our communities Staff Attorney and outlines specific ways in which Riverkeeper members can do their part to change our energy ROBERT GOLDSTEIN General Counsel/ Hudson River Program Director habits while helping America re-establish its historic role as an innovator and global leader. ROSE MARIE GRANDE In this issue of Riverkeeper, we preview the upcoming fight to stop Entergy from receiving a license Administrative Assistant

JOHN LIPSCOMB extension that would allow the out-of-state energy company to operate the chronically malfunctioning Boat Captain Indian Point plant for another 25-plus years. The bad news is that this is it: if we don’t succeed in the STELLA LIROSI Operations Manager next two years in either convincing the NRC to deny Entergy a new license or in convincing Entergy PHILLIP MUSEGAAS Indian Point Policy Analyst to negotiate a settlement, our valiant struggle to close Indian Point will be over and New Yorkers will MARY BETH POSTMAN Executive Assistant to have to live with the threat of a catastrophic accident for another generation. The good news is that Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. we can win and have both the political and public support necessary to prevail. But it’s going to take LISA RAINWATER Indian Point Campaign Director a focused and concerted effort and we’ll need your support to carry us to victory. LAURA SEDLAK Executive Assistant On other fronts, Robert Goldstein, our Hudson River program director, showcases our exciting new BASIL SEGGOS Chief Investigator relationship with the Columbia Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation. This fall VICTOR TAFUR Staff Attorney a select group of the School’s graduate students and faculty will be helping us craft guidelines that we REBECCA TROUTMAN can use to encourage more thoughtful development along the waterfront – projects that incorporate Staff Attorney

TERESA WALSH green design and minimize the impact these multi-use developments have on the watershed and the Events Manager local communities that host them. BILL WEGNER Watershed Analyst This issue’s Unsung Hero is Judith Enck, Attorney General Eliot Spitzer’s stalwart champion of SABRINA WELLS Watchdog Program Coordinator environmental causes. As you will learn, we could have no better friend fighting for our right for a clean environment than the humble but brilliant Judith Enck. As always, I am grateful to all of you for your ongoing support and generosity in helping Riverkeeper KIM BARRON Graphic Designer fight the good fight to protect our environment, our health, and ultimately our democracy.

© RIVERKEEPER 2006. READERS’ LETTERS & COMMENTS WELCOME. RIVERKEEPER IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK AND SERVICE MARK OF — Alex Matthiessen, Hudson Riverkeeper & President RIVERKEEPER, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER, NATURALLY Riverkeeper is the official publication of Riverkeeper, Inc., an independent, member-supported environmental organization. Founded in 1966 by fishermen and community members to confront polluters for control of the Hudson River, Riverkeeper has investigated and successfully prosecuted more than 300 environmental lawbreakers and has guided the establishment of 156 Waterkeeper programs across the nation and beyond. Riverkeeper is a registered trademark and service mark of Riverkeeper, Inc. All rights reserved. 2 Letter from The Hudson Riverkeeper. 4 Watershed News. Bellayre and Beyond. The New York Community Trust: A Partner in Watershed Protection. Riverkeeper Joins With Columbia to Consider Responsible River Development. Watershed Development Projects Update. Riverkeeper Partners With Municipalities to Reduce Road Salt Use. 10 Reenergizing New York for the 21st Century. How we respond to our energy needs will define our beautiful Hudson River and who we are as a people. 15 The Common Sense Conspiracy. 16 Indian Point Campaign. Indian Point at the Crossroads. Where’s the EPA? 19 Hudson River Watchdog Program. Get on Board. 20 Currents. Patrol Boat Log. Victory in the Meadows Case. Hotline Calls. 23 The Docket. 24 Member News. 30 Unsung Hero.

31 Cover art: Daniel Baxter 2006 Children Making a Difference. 4 efforts toprotect W e ok City’sNew York is anupdateof drinking water ater Riverkeeper’s shed ne supply. ws watershed news

COURTESY OF TOM ALWORTH critical totheHudsonRiver Valley andNew York City. central componentofourmissiontosafeguardtheintegritywater resources drinking w in 1987, provides withtherecognitionthatwatershed highquality, unfiltered Riverkeeper’s efforts topreserveandprotect theNew York City began Watershed W Belleayre andBeyond In r fishing –thatcould resultfrom water qualityfor drinkingand ness ofwaterthat impacts increased turbidity–orcloudi- lar concernistheriskof sur would becatastrophictothe mutation ofthislandscape State Park.Inaddition,the characteristics oftheCatskill the beautyand“foreverwild” and otherswholooktoenjoy hikers, backpackers,birders, ly changingthelandscapefor r sheds oftwothesystem’s would liewithinthewater in theCatskillMountainsthat mammoth r shed hasbeenfightinga Hudson portionofthewater- of ourattentionintheW par ly 600acresofthemostfragile development wouldclaimnear- eser r t ecent years,aprimar ounding ar B voirs. Asproposed,this of themountain,drastical ater Y C HRISTOPHER esort development ater tomorethanhalfthepopulationofNew York State.Itisnow a eas. Ofpar shed W ILDE y est-of- ticu- focus - - Team Looks Westward on steepslopesandtheper such widespr ways, driveways androoftops. paved surfaces, suchasroad- five acresofforested landinto developer wouldturneighty- sewage treatmentplants.The buildings, includingtwo with atotalof99separate and othercommer parking lots,andgolfcourses. mountainsides tobuildings, nent conversionoffor eral hundr courses, twolargehotels,sev- room fortwo18-holegolf 275,000 treeswouldmake destruction ofapproximately Ski Center. Theproposed operated Belleayr New York State-ownedand ern andwesternsidesofthe ridges thatconstitutetheeast steep slopesandmountain- build a573-acr this pr Specifically oposal isseekingto ed timeshareunits, ead construction , the developerof e resort onthe e cial facilities, Mountain ested ma - - in thehistor lar Not surprisingly ar of developmentprojectsthat Park. Itisfarfromthekind the CatskillPreservation and tenother groups formed following summer, Riverkeeper comings inthedocument.The conclusions, andothershort- invalid assumptionsand of omissions,scientifically comments outliningthevariety others submittedextensive which Riverkeeperandmany proposal wasreleased,upon tal ImpactStatementforthe 7,000-page DraftEnvironmen- opment. InSeptember2003,a against thisill-conceiveddevel the lastseveralyearsinabattle groups, Riverkeeperhasspent local, r Agr W e atershed Memorandumof Together withtenother gest developmentpr eement. consistent withthe1997 egional, andnational y of theCatskill , this isthe oposal - ALTHOUGH OUR FIGHT AGAINST THE BELLEAYRE PROJECT IS CURRENTLY THE MOST

PROMINENT AND TIME-SENSITIVE EFFORT AMONG OUR CASES IN THE WEST-OF-HUDSON,

THERE IS NO QUESTION MORE OF OUR TIME AND RESOURCES WILL BE DEVOTED THERE AS

DEVELOPMENT PRESSURES IN THE CATSKILLS REGION ESCALATE...

Coalition (CPC), to participate I Impacts to Community important given its proximity water supply has already reached with full party status in the Character to existing wilderness areas a turbidity crisis point. Issues Conference, an adminis- I Secondary and Induced and because it contains steep Meanwhile, Riverkeeper and trative process to challenge the Growth Impacts slopes that drain into waters the rest of the CPC continue Draft Environmental Impact I Cumulative Impacts essential for recreational fish- the legal fight against the Statement and draft project I Alternatives ing and for the New York City Belleayre Resort, wherein the permits. That the exhaustive ruling drinking water supply. The Commissioner of DEC will rule Through the course of a touched on such wide-ranging proposal also envisions an on appeals to the ALJ’s 2005 four-month Issues Conference, issues makes clear the array of environmentally sound devel- ruling, ultimately deciding the CPC, through its expert potential impacts of this proj- opment project on the western which issues will move forward witnesses, identified a variety ect, and their need for adjudi- portion of the project site that for what would be a lengthy of “substantive and significant” cation spoke volumes on the would be in keeping with the adjudicatory hearing requiring issues deserving of further testi- developer’s utter failure to suf- scale and character of sur- extensive legal and scientific mony and cross-examination ficiently minimize, mitigate, or rounding areas and the rural expertise on CPC’s behalf. of experts. In September 2005, even explain such impacts. nature of the Catskills at large. Riverkeeper deeply appreciates the Administrative Law Judge Shortly following this ruling, Riverkeeper and the other the continuing support of its (ALJ) of the New York State U.S. Representative Maurice members of the CPC have sup- members in this long but criti- Department of Environmental Hinchey, a longtime defender ported this proposal in concept. cally important effort to pre- Conservation issued a ruling of the Catskills whose district Since Congressman Hinchey’s serve the Catskills’ precious that would require this further includes much of the potential- alternative was proposed, a resources. For more information inquiry in an administrative ly affected area, proposed an growing collection of concerned on how to help, please visit trial, or adjudication, alternative. Congressman agencies, including the New https://secure.ga3.org/05/catskills. of twelve issues in connection Hinchey recognized that the York City Department of Although our fight against with the proposed Belleayre project as envisioned threatens Environmental Protection the Belleayre project is the Resort at Catskill Park. The the character, natural resources, (DEP) and Region 2 of the most prominent and time-sen- twelve issues to be held over and quality of life of the U.S. Environmental Protection sitive effort among our cases in for adjudication were: Catskills. He also recognized Agency (EPA), have also the West-of-Hudson, there is I Water Supply and Ground- that the ALJ ruling represented expressed support for the need no question more of our time water and Surface Water an important, though procedur- to permanently protect the and resources will be devoted Impacts al, decision and sought to eastern portion of the site there as development pressures I Aquatic Habitat Impacts advance a potential resolution. while considering the concept in the Catskills region escalate, I Stormwater Impacts The Congressman’s proposal of a less intrusive project on as the turbidity problems that I Impacts to the Catskill includes permanent protection the western portion. Chief threaten water quality persist, Forest Preserve of the eastern portion of the among the concerns of both and as EPA considers extend- I Impacts to Wildlife project site which would be DEP and EPA is the possible ing the City’s filtration waiver I Noise Impacts sold by the developer for runoff of turbid stormwater for the Cat-Del system early in

I Traffic Impacts inclusion into the Catskill into the Catskills water supply 2007. I I Visual Impacts Forest Preserve. Protection of from the eastern side, particu- the eastern portion is critically larly where that portion of the 5 s w e

n The New York Community Trust: A Partner in Watershed Protection d e h s

r or more than a decade, has increased Riverkeeper’s Patricia Jenny, program direc- e t a FThe New York Community capacity and our effectiveness tor at the Trust. “More than a The Trust was among w Trust has provided bedrock as an advocate for and enforcer century ago, City leaders creat- support for Riverkeeper to of stronger federal, state, and ed one of the world’s largest the first foundations to safeguard the upstate water- local laws, and a catalyst for and best drinking water sys- support Riverkeeper’s sheds that supply drinking grassroots action in the water- tems, now one of our greatest water to more than nine sheds,” said Alex Matthiessen, assets. Riverkeeper’s legal and watershed protection million residents of New York Riverkeeper’s President. “The scientific efforts to protect this City and the Hudson Valley. consistency with which the asset are a very important part efforts. Through the Henry Philip Trust has supported us has of our commitment to ensure Kraft Family Memorial Fund, allowed us to forecast our that the City’s water continues the Trust has helped River- resources and develop longer- to set the standard.” implement and enforce the keeper to build a robust pro- term campaigns focused on The Trust was among the 1997 Watershed Memorandum gram dedicated to watershed systemic change. We consider first foundations to support of Agreement, a comprehensive protection. What began in the the Trust a partner in our Riverkeeper’s watershed pro- landmark agreement among early 1990s as a project with watershed protection program, tection efforts, helping us to the Clean Drinking Water one staff member is now a full- and on behalf of the millions of hire a “Reservoir Keeper” in Coalition and local, state, and fledged department comprising people that program serves, we the early 1990s to help call federal officials that provides three attorneys and a scientist. are very grateful.” attention to New York State’s resources and a framework for Riverkeeper’s Watershed “Since we began our New and New York City’s neglect protecting the drinking water Program staff work closely with York City environment grant of the City’s upstate reservoirs; supply in its unfiltered state. other members of the Clean program in the mid-1980s, and to advocate on behalf of Recent grants from the Trust Drinking Water Coalition. protecting the quality of the drinking water consumers. have supported Riverkeeper’s “The New York Community City’s drinking water supply Subsequent grants helped anti-sprawl campaign in Putnam Trust’s longstanding support has been a priority,” said Riverkeeper to build a staff to and northern Westchester Riverkeeper Joins with Columbia to Consider Responsible River Development

BY ROBERT GOLDSTEIN, GENERAL COUNSEL, AND MAURA YATES, HUDSON RIVER PROGRAM INTERN

he current, most insidi- stages along its tributaries. ments to the ecological integri- tal impact analysis including ous threat to the While many of these develop- ty of the Hudson River water- consideration of local water- THudson Valley is the ments are slated for former shed, and ideally provide a net front revitalization issues. It imprudent redevelopment of industrial sites or “Brownfields,” gain in environmental quality. should be noted that none of former industrial space along market pressures are also plac- Development on existing these conditions will justify the the River and its tributaries. ing undeveloped “Greenfield” Brownfields may provide these development of Greenfields, The ecological integrity of the parcels at risk of development. benefits if several critical pre- which Riverkeeper stresses Hudson Valley is being com- Why now? You only have to liminary conditions are met. should be slotted for preserva- promised by development that view the River from almost These include: (1) a complete tion rather than any develop- has spun out of control. There any vantage point to see the assessment of the conditions ment. are at least 15,000 units now reasons for this surge in devel- on-site, followed by a compre- Responsible Brownfield rede- being developed or in the plan- opment. It is remarkably beau- hensive and closely scrutinized velopment is such an integral ning process in Hudson River- tiful and dramatically cleaner remediation tailored to remove part of creating and maintain- front towns — Yonkers alone than it has been in years. contaminants from the site ing a sustainable Hudson River is engaged in processes that Development is not necessar- rather than cap them; (2) a site Valley that Riverkeeper has will develop 6,000 waterfront ily a negative if it is done plan that is appropriate in enlisted the expertise of the fac- units. And that is only along responsibly. Riverkeeper feels magnitude for the community; ulty and students at the the Hudson! Countless devel- that projects should be and (3) the conduct of a com- Columbia University Graduate opments are in the various designed to offset any detri- plete (and honest) environmen- School of Architecture, 6 WATERSHED DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS UPDATE Watershed Protection The watershed team continues to work on a number of intensive sprawl development projects, including: Counties, in which the Croton successful public workshops portion of the watershed is attended by elected officials, PATTERSON CROSSING located. With the help of the developers, and residents on A voluminous Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) Trust, Riverkeeper has solutions to sprawl, and we are was released in late summer, allowing us to significantly researched and published a working on a second volume ramp up our efforts regarding a project that as currently envi- sioned is a massive half-million-square-foot big box retail study on the environmental, of the report focused on these center with some 2,000 parking spaces straddling the towns economic, and social impacts solutions. The report will pro- of Kent and Patterson. We have serious concerns regarding of sprawl-styled development vide the basis for a vigorous the level of impervious surfaces, potential stormwater and conducted extensive out- grassroots campaign at the impacts to both the Middle and East Branch Reservoirs, and reach on the study to elected local, state, and federal levels. insufficient consideration of alternatives, among others. Our and appointed officials, water- The Trust is also continuing its written comments and those expressed at the public hear- shed residents, business own- support of our ongoing review ings will fully reflect the multitude of potential impacts we ers, and other stakeholders. In of development projects in the discover in an extensive review of the DEIS. 2005 we made presentations watershed and our work with of the study before more than local community groups to STATELINE RETAIL CENTER half of the town boards in the address those projects that In mid-summer Riverkeeper submitted comments on the Croton watershed. threaten drinking water scoping document for Stateline, a proposed 183,000-square- foot shopping center in Southeast, including a 135,000 This year the Trust is sup- resources. square-foot ‘anchor’ which is yet to be announced, located porting the next phase of Riverkeeper thanks The New just 600 feet from the East Branch Reservoir. Though the Riverkeeper’s anti-sprawl York Community Trust for its project does not currently consider impacts to steep slopes campaign which will engage commitment to drinking water or wetlands, its proximity to the reservoir, as well as its watershed communities in the protection for New York City sheer scope, remain of concern. As the review process for development and implementa- residents, and for its support of the project unfolds, Riverkeeper will advocate for a reduced tion of solutions to sprawl. our Watershed Program. I footprint, alternatives to large impervious parking lots, and Riverkeeper has conducted innovative stormwater controls, among other improvements.

GATEWAY SUMMIT/THE FAIRWAYS Planning and Preservation. After preliminary analysis, A Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for this Emulating our existing long- Columbia University and multi-use project located in Carmel was released in late summer. The project in its initial form included a mix of term successful relationship Riverkeeper recognize that commercial and residential use on 190 acres to include a with the Pace Law School in order for the waterfront hotel and conference center, roughly 250 units of assisted Environmental Litigation Clinic, to be protected, three tiers living/senior housing, retail and office space, and a YMCA. In and our fledgling association of “location,” or scales, must part through Riverkeeper’s advocacy, the developer scaled with Columbia Law School’s be addressed: the immediate back the project from its original incarnation by reducing Environmental Clinic, this new waterfront, the local municipal- impervious surface by 20%, disturbance on 20% and higher partnership will supplement ity, and the entire watershed. slopes by nearly 60%, and overall site disturbance by over Riverkeeper’s Hudson River The formulation of new, com- 40 acres. Through review and comment on the FEIS, we will team with the finest minds in plex models using the three- continue to advocate for additional refinements and reduced architecture and urban design. tiered scale will be the guiding impacts where possible. Columbia’s fall 2006 design stu- force behind the joint effort. dio, the vehicle for this pairing, This approach will ensure the WESTCHESTER COUNTY AIRPORT In mid-summer we submitted comments on a scoping docu- will focus on creating solutions most effective and comprehen- ment for a number of proposed activities at the Westchester to current design and land-use sive – as well as unique – County Airport, which is sited in close proximity to the issues that affect the Hudson advance in urban design and Kensico Reservoir through which 90% of the water supply River Estuary. Through the use planning customized to defend flows. In those comments, we expressed serious concerns of real-life case studies, gradu- the watershed’s ecological with potential water quality impacts of several proposed ate students – architects all — integrity, while mapping a sus- safety, environmental, and security ‘improvements’ at the will look at various urban tainable and practical strategy airport. We will continue to participate closely in the environ- design models, using them to for dealing with the future’s mental review process for these activities going forward. address development issues and predictable development

concerns in the watershed. pressures. I 7 ~~~~~

s BY WILLIAM WEGNER map it in Geographic Information System

w Riverkeeper Partners e fter more than half a century of (GIS) format on its website. To generate n d

e widespread use of road salt in With Municipalities meaningful data, we developed a plan to col- h s

r North America, the environmental lect records of weather conditions during e

t A to Reduce Road Salt Use

a impacts of salt application have come snow and ice operations, whether operators w under scrutiny by environmental and scien- in the East-of-Hudson are pre-wetting or spreading road salt, the tific communities as well as regulators and types and amounts of deicers used, and how legislators. Long-term deposition of mil- Watershed many miles each driver logs during each lions of tons of salt on impervious road ~~~~~ snow event. It is also important to know the surfaces has resulted in roadside habitat air temperature and time of application so degradation, wildlife kills and drinking Impacts of road salt on soils, vegetation, that we can cross-reference that information water quality impacts. According to the wildlife, aquatic biota, human health, and with meteorological data for any given National Research Council, road salt use in infrastructure are well documented. storm. This will allow Riverkeeper and the the United States ranges as high as 12 mil- Elevated sodium and chloride levels in soils Westchester municipalities to track road salt lion tons per year, with Massachusetts, create osmotic imbalances in plants, a application and determine which deicing New Hampshire and New York reporting process that inhibits water absorption and management practices require less salt appli- the highest salt loadings. reduces root growth. Damage to vegetation cation than others. An examination of New York City’s unfil- degrades wildlife habitat by destroying In August, the Watershed Team attended a tered drinking water supply reveals that food resources, habitat corridors, shelter second meeting with the Westchester County groundwater discharge accounts for up to and breeding or nesting sites. In freshwater town supervisors, the town highway superin- 60% of total annual stream flow in the ecosystems, salinity stresses aquatic com- tendents, and the New York State 2,000-square-mile watershed and that infil- munities and inhibits the natural process- Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to tration is the most common mechanism for ing of leaf litter. In humans, excess dietary further outline the program goals and to road salt to enter groundwater supplies. sodium is associated with hypertension, structure uniform data collection practices. This has resulted in contamination of pri- and up to 30% of the U.S. population may The Westchester County Planning vate drinking water wells and measurable have borderline to pronounced hyperten- Department chaired the meeting, and the salinity in freshwater stream base flows. sion. This amounts to nearly three million town highway superintendents offered to There are approximately 6,000 miles of New Yorkers who are potentially affected form a task force to develop program proce- paved roadways in the watershed, where, by road salt loading into the drinking dures and a timeline for our next winter sea- according to the United States Geological water supplies. In addition to the public son. The Watershed Team also was invited to Survey (USGS), road salt application ranges health and environmental problems associ- present a lecture on the environmental from 37 to 298 tons per lane-mile per year. ated with chloride salt deicers, the corro- impacts of road salt at NYSDOT’s snow and Two-lane town, county and state roads sivity of road salt adversely impacts motor ice operations seminar in October. receive 37 tons per lane-mile per year. The vehicles and infrastructure, with corrosion While many communities claim reductions Taconic State Parkway, which travels protection measures in new bridges and the in road salt use in recent years, no data has through three watershed sub-basins in the repairing of old bridges estimated to cost been collected to document these claims. In Croton watershed, receives 75 tons per lane- snowbelt states $250-$650 million per year. late September, Senator Vincent Leibell (R- mile per year. Interstate 84 travels through These findings compelled Riverkeeper’s Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess) secured two sub-basins in the Croton watershed and Watershed Team to research potential salt $121,000 that will be used to install new receives 298 tons per lane-mile per year. contamination of water supplies and cost- temperature sensor equipment on highway The New York City Department of effective alternative deicing management department trucks in the Town of Somers and Environmental Protection’s 2004 Watershed practices in the East-of-Hudson Watershed. allow Riverkeeper to collect data and assess Water Quality Annual Report states: In addition, we explored partnering with alternative de-icing equipment and methods “… most of the [Croton Watershed] reser- East-of-Hudson municipalities to document against current practices. The truck-mounted voirs have displayed steady increases in con- existing practices, learn what reduction sensors measure pavement surface tempera- ductivity since the early 1990s, most likely practices are being implemented, and pilot ture which results in reduced road salt appli- associated with development pressure in the test some of the road salt alternatives. cations when colder air temperature watershed, e.g. increased use of road salt.” In July, the Watershed Team met with readings would otherwise suggest the need In fact, a recent study by the USGS reported Westchester County Executive Andrew for salting. The pilot project in Somers that if road-salting practices continue at Spano and the Westchester town supervisors should inspire other communities to collect their present rate in the northeastern United to discuss implementation of a countywide and share similar data. This way, the best States, many freshwater streams will be too program to monitor road salt application on technology available can be applied to saline for use as drinking water supplies a town-by-town basis. The County agreed enhance the protection of our freshwater

within the next century. to act as a repository for the data and to ecosystems and drinking water supplies. I 8 What We Do and How You Can Help

Founded in 1966 by fishermen and community Ways to Contribute members to confront polluters for control of By joining Riverkeeper you become part of a Gifts of Stock the Hudson River, Riverkeeper has investigat- community of people fighting to protect the Gifts of appreciated securities are an effective ed and successfully prosecuted more than Hudson River from pollution and harmful way to help Riverkeeper and realize significant three hundred environmental lawbreakers and development. Membership benefits are tax advantages at the same time. To find out is credited with having led the battle to offered at varying levels. Donors under $500 more about contributing stock, contact River- restore the Hudson River and to save New receive a Riverkeeper bumper sticker, a sub- keeper’s Development Office, at 914-478-4501. York City’s drinking water supply. Today, the scription to the Riverkeeper semi-annual Hudson River is the only major estuary on the newsletter and invitations to select member Atlantic coast of the United States that still events. In addition to the above, Atlantic Charitable Estate Planning retains spawning stocks of all its native fish Sturgeon members ($500-$999) receive name If you wish to ensure the protection of the species. Riverkeeper has helped to establish recognition in the Riverkeeper newsletter and Hudson for future generations, consider globally recognized standards for waterway a DVD copy of Swim for the River, a 2006 doc- remembering Riverkeeper in your will. The and watershed protection and serves as umentary chronicling the first swim of the proper designation is: model and mentor for the growing entire length of the Hudson River. Hudson Waterkeeper movement that includes more River Stewards ($1,000-$4,999) receive a “To Riverkeeper, Inc., a not-for-profit, tax than 156 Keeper programs across the country. Riverkeeper picnic blanket. Hudson River exempt organization incorporated by the laws Please visit our website at www.riverkeeper.org. Falcons ($5,000-$9,999) receive a copy of of the state of New York in 1983, having as its Hudson River Journey, Images from Lake Tear address 828 South Broadway,Tarrytown, New How We Operate of the Clouds to New York Harbor, with the York 10591-6602. I hereby give and bequeath ______to be used for Riverkeeper’s Through citizen complaints and our own introduction written by Alex Matthiessen, general purposes.” investigations, we root out polluters and other Hudson Riverkeeper and President. threats to the Hudson and New York City For additional information about planned giv- watershed. We rely on Pace University Law When making cash contributions, check to see ing opportunities, please contact Riverkeeper’s School’s Environmental Litigation Clinic to if your company matches charitable contribu- Development Office, at 914-478-4501. help bring them to justice. With Robert F. tions by employees. It could double your gift Kennedy, Jr. and Karl S. Coplan at the helm, to Riverkeeper. For more information about 10 students work as attorneys each semester contributing to Riverkeeper, please contact How to Join bringing lawsuits against polluters. The stu- Allison Chamberlain in the Development To join Riverkeeper, simply fill out the form dents receive special permission from New Office at 914-478-4501, ext. 232. below and mail it along with your contribution York State to practice and provide Riverkeeper to: Riverkeeper, 828 South Broadway, with the equivalent of as much as $1 million Tarrytown, NY 10591-6602. Please check the in legal services each year. appropriate box and fill in the amount below or log on to our website at www.riverkeeper.org.

H Blue Crab ...... under $100 H Please sign me up for H Striped Bass...... $100 – 249 Riverkeeper’s Activist Listserv. H American Shad ...... $250 – 499 I want to be notified by e-mail H Atlantic Sturgeon ...... $500 – 999 about public hearings, letter-

H Hudson River Steward ...... $1,000 – 4,999 writing campaigns and other activist events. My e-mail H Hudson River Falcon ...... $5,000 – 9,999 addresses are included below. H Enclosed is my check or credit card authorization for $______

H I would like to charge my contribution on my:

H VISA H MC H AMEX Exp. Date___/___/___

Card #

Name as it appears on card

Name Business Name Business Title

Address Business Address

Telephone Business Telephone e-mail Business e-mail 9 REENERGIZING NEW YORK for the 21st CENTURY

Energy. It is the defining issue of our century. We need it. Wars are fought over it. And it comes at a terribly high cost. How we respond to our energy needs will define our beautiful Hudson River, from Lake Tear of the Clouds to the Battery, and who we are as a people. We at Riverkeeper embrace this challenge for all that it means to us and our work – and urge you to join us as we face this energy dilemma that can no longer be ignored. That is what reenergizing New York is all about.

by Lisa Rainwater M O C . O T O H P K C O T S I F O Y S E T R U O

10 C O T O H P t the core of Riverkeeper’s River and its environs. As the or we can choose to use energy only to protect our River, but forty-year history has been population has expanded, the wisely – decreasing our reliance also to protect the very envi- Aa deep-seated concern over suburbs have expanded with it. on dirty energy and decreasing ronment that helps sustain it the impact human beings and What once were considered our wasteful behaviors that and us. As the 2006 National the industries they run have on rural areas have now been directly impact the River and Academy of Sciences study on one of the most valuable and swallowed up under the rubric the environment that we will Indian Point made clear, there beautiful waterways in all of of the ‘greater New York soon hand over to our chil- are no technological impedi- North America: the Hudson metropolitan area,’ leading to dren. ments to changing the way we River. In the 1960’s a strong massive housing developments, Energy has given us some of get energy. Realizing this, band of citizens comprised of mega mall proposals, asphalt the most important advances in Riverkeeper is focusing now commercial and recreational strip malls, and once bucolic all humankind – but it’s also more than ever on energy fishermen witnessed grave landscapes now subdivided and come at a terribly high price. issues, how it’s produced, and impacts on the Hudson River dotted with mammoth man- If we are to continue to make how it’s used. We believe this fisheries from a variety of sions. With these new ‘develop- improvements to the River we last piece of the puzzle, which industries, including power ments’ comes an insatiable love and the world in which may be the most difficult, is plants, auto factories, and need to satisfy the energy we live, Riverkeeper sees only the piece that will ensure that manufacturing plants. With demands of buildings and one sustainable option avail- our River, its watershed, and steadfast civic action, the people who didn’t exist ten or able: Smart Energy production its human population remain group spearheaded efforts to twenty years ago. This ever- and use. We now need to strive healthy for decades to come. stop the construction of a power plant deep within the belly of Storm King Mountain. Riverkeeper is focusing now more than ever on energy issues, how Riverkeeper’s predecessor, the Hudson River Fishermen’s it’s produced, and how it’s used. We believe this last piece of the Association, as the group became known, was successful puzzle, which may be the most difficult, is the piece that will ensure at stopping the power plant. Their actions were instrumen- that our River, its watershed, and its human population remain tal in carving out federal envi- ronmental laws that now healthy for decades to come. protect our waterways from becoming industrial sewers. growing quest for more energy and put all our resources into An added bonus, of course, is While the health of the has startling implications for the effort to reduce the costs of that in this transition Indian Hudson River has come a long the health of the Hudson River, energy production and energy Point, along with the dangers it way in the last forty years, its watershed, and the people use on our environment and on poses to the Hudson Valley threats to the River and its who call it home. our health. That’s what and New York City, will watershed persist. Raw sewage Reenergizing New York is all become an obsolete form of continues to seep into the river The Quest For Energy about – using state-of-the-art energy production that will from points up and down the Like much of the county, New technologies to meet our ener- only serve as a reminder of a Hudson every time it rains. York is facing an energy dilem- gy needs and simultaneously bygone era. Power plants – large and small ma. And like much of the benefiting our local communi- In launching our Reenergize – continue to use outdated country, how we, as a commu- ties and the environment we New York Campaign, we are technologies to draw water nity of New Yorkers, choose to need to survive. in many ways harkening back from the River and in the address this energy dilemma From power plants to to our roots. We don’t support process kill billions of fish, will have short- and long-term sewage treatment plants to the building of dirty power eggs and larvae annually. And ramifications for our families housing development projects, plants to whet our energy small and large industry con- and our environment. We can Riverkeeper has tried through appetite, and we definitely tinues to dump in the Hudson, choose to consume energy with the years to focus on as many don’t support a twenty-year often until they are discovered a mounting, voracious appetite sources of pollution impacting license extension for the Indian by Riverkeeper’s boat patrol – increasing the number of the Hudson River as possible. Point nuclear power plant that and are then forced to stop and power plants and their impacts With the 21st century fully continues to suck in billions of remediate. on the Hudson River and underway, a comprehensive gallons of Hudson River water On the horizon is another increasing our detrimental con- energy plan has become a solid a day. There are myriad alter- growing threat to the Hudson tributions to global warming, component of our strategy, not (continued on page 12) 11 REENERGIZING NEW YORK loss of life, unstable geopoliti- address our increasing energy the country people are starting continued from page 11 cal regions, and a mounting demands? How will we be able to talk – and act. People who natives to antiquated, large- debt placed heavily on the to afford such demands? How have never thought about scale, dirty forms of energy shoulders of our children. Oil will we begin to decrease these energy are talking about wind production, and, like our pred- prices have soared, forcing sec- demands? How will we be able farms and solar panels. ecessors, we stand charged to tors of the American popula- to reduce our CO2 emissions Farmers have begun to lease protect the Hudson River. At tion to choose between paying in hopes of halting the devas- small parcels of land for clean, this juncture, it entails the heating bills or buying food tating effects of global warm- renewable wind turbines; quest for (and commitment to) and medication. The federal ing? How can we avoid high homeowners are cashing in on safe, reliable, affordable energy government’s attempt to ‘han- risks associated with antiquat- state rebates for solar panels sources. dle’ the emergency hurricane ed forms of energy? How will faster than states can fill the crisis in the Gulf a year ago we again become world leaders orders. People who have never The Time is Nigh was feeble and misguided, in innovative, safe technologies considered themselves ‘environ- It’s been nearly seven years raising more questions than that can be exported to other mentalists’ are talking about since New York rang in the answers as to its ability to han- parts of the world? the impacts of global warming. new millennium, and in that dle an emergency of any size, Unfortunately, with the pas- Consumers are trading in their time our worldview has much less a nuclear one. The sage of the Energy Policy Act gas-guzzling automobiles for changed. The terrorist attacks term “global warming” has of 2005, Congress missed the hybrids and fuel-efficient vehi- of September 11, 2001 brought now entered the vernacular, in opportunity, not only to take cles. People who have never the world together, if but for a part because of Vice-President into consideration all that has thought about where their brief moment, to mourn with Al Gore’s recent film, but also happened in recent years, but energy comes from are talking New York and the rest of the because people have an innate also to address these critical to their electricity providers country. Within the next ability to see and understand questions. As the Union of and demanding ‘renewable- year, the United States the truth, despite repeated Concerned Scientists noted, only’ energy options. And government embark- attempts to keep us in the dark. “Congress chose to largely fol- they’re purchasing it when ed on a “global war All of these factors have con- low the path of a 19th century available. on terror,” leaving verged into one looming issue fossil-fuel past instead of craft- Throughout American histo- a trail fraught facing all Americans, young ing an energy bill for the 21st ry, the federal government has with tremendous and old: energy. How will we century that would lead us to failed the public. Throughout a clean energy future.” If there American history, states and had ever been a time when the local governments have stepped energy future of America could in to fill the gaps and right the have been led down a new, wrongs. Throughout American clean, secure path, it was 2005. history, citizens have banded Instead, the $12.3 billion ener- together to force policy change gy bill maintains the status quo when policymakers can’t seem – providing huge tax breaks to do it on their own. The time is nigh for change – big change. And the Empire State is set to take the lead in transforming how energy is and financial produced and used in this incentives to traditional country. (read fossil fuel and nuclear) energy producers already amas- Reenergizing New York – sing all-time high profits. It does Smart Energy Production M O C .

little to reduce our dependence Implementing a comprehensive, O T O H

on foreign oil, fails to address all-inclusive energy plan for P K C O T

global warming, and provides New York State would be a S I F paltry incentives for renewable home run for the next gover- O Y S E T

energy. nor, for securing safe and reli- R U O C

But that doesn’t mean we able energy is critical to the O T O H

should give up hope. Across social, environmental, and P 12 M O C . can be implemented in New hands of New Yorkers, because O T O H

P York State today. These tech- all the windmills in the world K C O

T nologies are not only safe and won’t negate the social and S I F O reliable but they also greatly economic costs associated with Y S E T

R lessen the need to lay large energy if we continue to U O C

O transmission lines through our increase consumption of ener- T O H

P neighborhoods and the Hudson gy at the current rate. Smart River, since they can often be energy use – a combination of sited in close proximity to energy efficiency and energy where the energy is needed conservation measures – is key most. A sound energy plan that to reducing the need for large seeks to phase out large, pol- power plants, protecting the luting power plants in the com- Hudson River from pollution ing decades will go a long way and fishkills, and reducing our in igniting the renewable energy contributions to global warm- SLEEK SOLAR PANELS DRAW ENERGY FROM THE SUN ON THIS HOME. sector and ensuring that future ing. Luckily, there are myriad economic future of the State of New York. This plan should Throughout American history, citizens have banded together to force include changes in how energy is produced and how energy is policy change when policymakers can’t seem to do it on their own. used. One of the most important for commercial properties, and generations won’t be plagued ways we, as New Yorkers, can ways to greatly diminish the renewable energy certificates with polluted air and water, take a proactive role in reener- cost of energy production on are but a few means with decimated fish populations, gizing New York in order to society and our environment is which to encourage safer and and additional tons of deadly ensure a safe, secure, and reli- to change the way it is pro- cleaner alternatives to the cur- radioactive waste sitting on the able energy future for our chil- duced. New York State should rent forms of energy production banks of the Hudson River. dren and our children’s children. begin to move away from rely- in New York. During the first six years of And, New Yorkers have ing solely on large power The NYS Renewable the new millennium, we have already proven their tenacity plants to generate electricity. Portfolio Standard (RPS), unfortunately seen little and civic commitment to Smart Do we really want to depend adopted by the Public Service progress towards changing Energy use. This August, dur- on archaic technologies that Commission in September the way we produce energy ing the record-breaking heat pump poisonous gases into our 2004, requires that a minimum in New York State. With the wave, Mayor Bloomberg issued air, that generate radioactive of 25% of the State’s electricity clock continuing to tick on a proclamation to city waste known to be deadly for demands are generated from reaching the targeted goal of dwellers, requesting that every- 300,000 years, that destroy our renewable energy sources by 25% renewables by 2013 – one conserve energy in order to fisheries, that leak radioactive 2013. We have seven years to coincidentally the end of ensure energy reliability during poisons into our groundwater, meet this standard – and Indian Point 2’s operating the hottest days. New Yorkers and that fill our fish with mer- according to NYS Comptroller license – the next governor banded together and conserved cury? The federal government Alan Hevesi’s report, the bene- must act quickly and resolutely energy – doing their part to may have opted to continue fits will be enormous, flooding in bringing renewable energy avoid what could have been a subsidizing the coal and the market with up to 43,000 to New York. He also needs to week’s worth of unstable elec- nuclear industries, but the State high-paying new jobs, generat- know, however, that the public tricity supply. With energy bills has the ability and the respon- ing revenue for farmers, reduc- stands behind him, because continuing to rise and the plan- sibility to step in and provide ing public health care costs, how we produce energy in et’s delicate system continuing incentives for increased renew- jump-starting in-state invest- New York is only one piece to become less stable, there is able energy production. ments, broadening the tax of the energy puzzle. no better time than now to Financial incentives, the base, diminishing pollution, consider how we use energy on repowering of dirty power and stabilizing energy prices Reenergizing New York – a daily basis – not just during plants, long-term power pur- for consumers. Smart Energy Use the dog days of summer – and chase agreements, solar rebates Wind, solar, biomass, and The other piece of the energy to change our behavior accord- for residential and commercial geothermal are safe, reliable, puzzle is how we use energy. It ingly. If we all do our part, properties, real net-metering and viable technologies that is this piece that lies in the (continued on page 14) 13 REENERGIZING NEW YORK mere twenty-four miles from environment, and contribute to York State, and showing our continued from page 13 New York City. If each of us global warming. Our new gov- children how to be responsible small changes at home and at did our part to practice Smart ernor also needs to know that and active community members. work can bring huge payoffs – Energy use, we could make as individuals, we are willing We encourage you to visit economically and environmen- great strides in diminishing to change our energy behaviors our website throughout the fall tally. Indian Point’s antiquated con- – even in the smallest ways – to learn more about our Re- tribution to New York’s energy to reduce our energy demands energize New York Campaign, For Our Future supply. The less energy we use, and thereby limit the number and how you can make a dif- This fall Riverkeeper calls on the less energy needs to be pro- of new, polluting plants from ference. If New York State our members, elected officials, duced. coming online in the future. leaders and residents all do our and the general public to join New York could become the Changing the way we use part, we can continue to pro- us in making significant changes leader in 21st century renew- energy and changing the way tect the Hudson River, its fish- in how we use energy in New able energy production and energy is produced in the eries, and its watershed, while York and how we produce Smart Energy use, returning us Empire State are critical to leaving a legacy of beauty and energy in New York. For five to a state deserving of the title achieving this goal. The bene- serenity to our children. If a years, tens of thousands of “The Empire State.” Our new fits reaped from this action band of fishermen could come New Yorkers have signaled governor needs to know that plan are numerous, including together and halt a power plant their wish to see Indian Point New Yorkers stand committed protecting our River, saving forty years ago, surely we can closed. Twenty million people to weaning ourselves from money, reducing our contribu- come together and commit to a live within a fifty-mile radius energy sources that are unsafe, tions to global warming, bring- Smart Energy plan for the next

of the nuclear plant that sits a pose security risks, damage our ing high-paying jobs to New forty and beyond. I GET STARTED NOW! REENERGIZE!

SMART EFFICIENCY SMART CONSERVATION I Buy and/or replace appliances and technological equipment I Turn up your thermostat. By setting your air conditioner or with Energy Star products. These items use less energy while central air two degrees higher than your current setting, you performing the same functions. The federal government even greatly reduce your energy use without sweating during those offers tax rebates on some Energy Star purchases. To learn hot summer days. more go to www.energystar. gov. I Keep doors and windows closed when using air conditioning. I Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent Businesses, in particular, often prop doors open to lure cus- bulbs. The bulbs may cost a bit more, but they last up to five tomers in during hot days. If you see a business cooling the years and reduce your energy bill significantly. outdoors, ask to see the manager and explain the importance of Smart Energy use. I Spring clean year round. Keeping the vents on your appli- ances free of dust and debris enables them to run more effi- I Think before you use an appliance. Hang clothes to dry, ciently, requiring less energy to keep your food cold and to handwash dishes and decide what you want before you open wash your clothes. the refrigerator.

I Install a low-flow faucet on your showerhead. You won’t I Unplug energy vampires, when not needed. The conveniences feel the difference in the shower, but your water heater won’t of modern day life have brought with them a mountain of have to work as hard to keep large volumes of water hot. tiny gadgets that need to be charged. The chargers continues to draw energy even if the device is not plugged in. (This also applies to television sets, cable boxes, computers, and other

M common electrical equipment found in the modern home.) O C . O T O H P I Install a smart metering device to monitor your energy use. K C O T S

I Smart meters show the consumer when energy demand is F O

Y high and low. Keeping track of fluctuations not only tells you S E T R

U when it’s best to run your appliances but also reduces strains O C

O on the grid. T O H P

14 THE COMMON SENSE CONSPIRACY by Dar Williams

Conspiracy? Yes, of course there is a ing our energy ways is no match conspiracy against this country's ener- The truth is, now is the against the march of progress, even gy security, and the name of its mas- though it takes two watts to power a termind is Business as Usual. It's only perfect time to participate in cell phone, while new air conditioners common sense. Right now, Business are hundreds of watts more efficient as Usual is fighting hard for its right conservation, efficiency and than those built only eight years ago. to prosper and thrive as it has done The same goes for all major appli- for the last hundred and fifty years. renewable energy in our ances and most computers. It's throwing kids on the T.V. screen to The truth is, now is the perfect time tell us that we have an almost infinite small businesses, families, to participate in conservation, efficien- amount of coal in our very own coun- cy and renewable energy in our small try (c’mon and use it already, you businesses, families, schools, and crazy grown-ups!), it's writing elabo- schools, and places of worship. places of worship. And, by the way, rate scripts to unhinge the logical con- now is also the time to buy solar pan- nection between high gas prices and els, since the federal energy bill quiet- high individual profits, it's sounding an unacceptable amount of pollutants ly submitted a token gesture of tax like a concerned team player, and it into the Hudson Valley air. incentives for them, and NY State has smiles condescendingly at the idea Riverkeeper has been in a constant one of the best solar incentive pro- that renewable energy could ever battle to make these power plants grams in the country as well. We compete with its energy source. The safer, cleaner, and more accountable, Hudson Valley residents, representing proponents of Business as Usual will and now it’s taking on the issue of a disproportionate amount of wealth, speak clearly yet passionately about energy use itself, and we can help. I smarts, and chutzpah, can circumnavi- the sovereignty of traditional, extract- encourage everyone who loves the gate the wonderfully crafted pes- able energy. They may even believe Hudson River to embrace lowered simism and passivity of our present what they are saying. It’s where they energy consumption and to research Business as Usual mindset, lower our come from. It’s who their friends are. and invest in renewable energy. energy use voluntarily, and show up But if we love our mighty river We are in a race against time. We’re their common sense conspiracy with mightily, and we do, then we our- up against the re-licensing of a rickety our common sense community, selves, consumers and constituents, nuclear plant. We’re up against a feder- because that’s where we come from. must see past Business as Usual and al government that cynically recognizes That’s who our friends are. I become passionate about controlling “climate change” as an excuse to our own energy future, not only exhort the use of even more nuclear Dar Williams is a musician who has become because of global warming, but also energy, while also shrugging and a major force on the New England folk scene. because energy issues are river pointing out that we’ll need more fossil An idiosyncratic songwriter who writes folk issues. Indian Point fills the Hudson fuel plants, too. We’re up against a songs from a unique, insightful perspective, River with two-and-a-half billion gal- propaganda machine that tells us that Williams takes pains to avoid the coy and the lons of boiling super-heated water solar energy is inefficient and that wind quirky; her songwriting and performing style every day, which wreaks havoc on the turbines are ugly, loud, bird killers. has been compared to that of Joni Mitchell river’s ecosystem, with or without the And speaking of inflated and conflated and Joan Baez. Dar and friends are starting strontium and tritium leaks, and it’s stories, though, I should mention that up a website called Mission Decommission, not the only plant that does so. soon we’ll also be pressured to equate tallying up the conservation, efficiency and Roseton, Bowline and Damskammer recent blackouts in Queens caused by renewable energy contributions of Hudson are a few of the other power plants on ConEd’s maintenance failures with the Valley residents in the year 2007. They’ll be the river that cool themselves by need for more power plants, or certain- up and running alongside of Riverkeeper as transferring their waste heat to the ly for keeping our present ones up and it challenges the re-licensing of Indian Point Hudson. And, of course, they release running. And we’ll be told that chang- Nuclear Plant in 2007. campaignINDIAN POINT

INDIAN POINT AT THE CROSSROADS

BY RENEE CHO license were renewed. t is expected that Entergy The safety review requires will submit an application that the plant identify all physi- Ito the Nuclear Regulatory cal structures and systems Commission (NRC) to extend whose aging could affect safety. Indian Point’s operating licens- It must demonstrate that the es for another twenty years in structures which are considered March 2007. The two reactors “passive and long-lived,” such are over thirty years old and as the coolant system piping or their safety problems continue steam generators, can be main- to escalate, raising the pointed tained safely for twenty more question: can we live another years. Because the effects of two decades with problem- aging on “active” components, plagued plants that pollute our such as motors, diesel genera- River? tors, and batteries is allayed Regardless of one’s stance on Indian The NRC licenses new com- through continuous surveil- mercial power reactors for 40 lance and maintenance pro- Point,an aging nuclear power plant years (the last nuclear power grams, these are not subject to plant in the U.S. was built in review during the license 1973) and can renew licenses renewal process. should receive a comprehensive, for an additional 20 years. So The public can participate in far, the NRC has granted the license renewal process. Once independent inspection before it’s license extensions for 44 reac- the NRC receives a renewal tors and is currently reviewing application, public hearings are eight other applications, with held to inform the public and allowed to operate for another twenty approximately 30 more to be get its input. Public meeting submitted in the next decade. notices are posted on the more years.Indian Point is a unique Contrary to what one would NRC’s website (www.nrc.gov). expect or hope, the focus of The public may also petition the license renewal process is the NRC to consider issues case,as it operates in the most densely extremely limited. Only two other than those within its nar- aspects are examined: environ- row scope. When the review is populated region of the country,has had mental effects and physical completed, the NRC publishes plant safety. its assessment and recommen- The Generic Environmental dation; the whole process takes numerous safety violations in the past, Impact Statement for License about 30 months. Renewal of Nuclear Plants and continues to operate without a assesses the effects that an A Broader Scope is Needed extended license would have on Given all we know now, would environmental concerns such as a new plant be approved at the workable emergency evacuation plan. endangered species, the effects Indian Point site today? M O C .

O of cooling water systems on fish Before new power plants T O H

P and ground water quality. The receive approval for their ini- K C O T

S NRC also conducts a review of tial operating license, many I F O

Y the environmental impacts a factors are taken into consider- S E T R

U particular plant might have on ation, including population O C

O its surrounding area if the density around the plant and T O H P 16 the assurance that evacuation Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) Emergency Management Hinchey, Lowey, Kelly, Engel plans can be effectively imple- introduced legislation in June Agency (FEMA) approved the and Shays wrote a letter to mented in the case of a radio- 2005 to reform the NRC’s reli- emergency plans; and respond Chairman Ralph M. Hall of logical emergency. Yet, the censing process. Called the to the criticisms of the emer- the Energy and Air Quality NRC’s review for relicensing Nuclear Power Licensing gency plan raised in the review Subcommittee urging him to process does not examine Reform Act of 2005, it would of the plans done by former take action on the bill and factors such as these which are require the NRC to consider FEMA head James Lee Witt in move it to the floor for consid- critical to the public’s safety. security vulnerabilities as well January 2003. Senator Clinton eration by the House before On May 10, 2005, Westches- as the viability of evacuation (D-NY) has introduced the the 109th Congress is dis- ter County Executive Andrew plans for the population living same legislation in the Senate missed in October 2006. At Spano petitioned the NRC within 50 miles of a nuclear (S. 2488). In March, the House press time, the bill still remains (Petition 2.802) to amend the power plant. It would also bill was referred to the Energy in committee. rules for license renewal of all require that any license renew- and Commerce Subcommittee Regardless of one’s stance on nuclear power plants. The peti- al meet the same criteria an ini- on Energy and Air Quality and Indian Point, an aging nuclear tion would mandate the NRC tial application would have to remains stalled. power plant should receive a to only relicense plants that meet. Lowey’s legislation has In April, NYS Comptroller comprehensive, independent meet all the requirements they remained stalled in the Alan Hevesi issued a letter to inspection before it’s allowed would have to meet if they Subcommittee on Energy and Entergy’s Chairman of the to operate for another twenty were applying for their initial Air Quality since July 2005. Board Robert Luft requesting more years. Indian Point is a operating license. It would also that Entergy submit to the unique case, as it operates in require that the relicensing Assessing the Safety of Independent Safety Assessment, the most densely populated evaluate factors such as demo- Indian Point as described in the U.S. House region in the country, has had graphics, emergency evacua- In order to pressure the NRC and Senate bills. The New York numerous safety violations in tion, and site security. The to take a harder look at the State Common Retirement the past, and continues to petition contends that because appropriateness of renewing Fund, which the Comptroller operate without a workable of Indian Point’s “proximity to Indian Point’s operating oversees, holds approximately emergency evacuation plan. major population centers, license, a bi-partisan coalition $58 million in Entergy shares. If Entergy and the NRC because of periodic leaks of of Congressional members Comptroller Hevesi also issued have nothing to hide from the radioactive material, because of introduced legislation last a letter to the NRC, urging public and our elected officials, difficult (if not impossible) spring that would require the that the federal agency conduct they should welcome an evacuation issues, and because NRC to conduct an Indepen- an Independent Safety Assess- Independent Safety Assess- of its proximity to the World dent Safety Assessment (ISA) ment as outlined in the federal ment. Entergy has denied the Trade Center,” the NRC’s of Indian Point. Introduced in legislation. need for an ISA, even though license renewal review should the House by Representatives NYS Attorney General Eliot the plant continues to have be both broader in scope and Hinchey (D-NY), Shays Spitzer and Connecticut Attorney serious mechanical and safety site-specific. Criteria should (R-CT), Lowey (D-NY), Engel General Richard Blumenthal problems. take into consideration condi- (D-NY) and Kelly (R-NY), also support the legislation. Join us in our efforts to tions that have changed since the ISA legislation (HR 4891) In an effort to show commu- prevent another 20 years of the building of the plant, as would require an in-depth, nity support for the ISA, The Indian Point. Sign our petition well as worst case scenarios. independent investigation into Indian Point Safe Energy opposing relicensing at www. Spano’s petition is currently the “design, construction, Coalition (IPSEC) gathered riverkeeper.org. Call and write being reviewed by NRC staff maintenance and operational more than 5,500 signatures in your Congressional representa- and a decision will probably safety performance” of Indian support of the legislation and tives to let them know that you not be issued before January Point Reactors 2 and 3; evalu- delivered them to Congress- support the ISA legislation. To 2007. ate the radiological emergency woman Sue Kelly’s office at the contact your representatives, Congresswoman Nita Lowey plan including an explanation end of June. visit http://www.visi.com/juan/

(D-NY) and Congressman of why the NRC and Federal In July, Representatives congress/index.html I

17 campaignINDIAN POINT

WHERE’S THE EPA? Riverkeeper Puts Entergy and EPA on notice regarding Radioactive Leaks at Indian Point

BY PHILLIP MUSEGAAS RCRA regulations, EPA retains The agency responded in Riverkeeper also responded n April 18, 2006, regulatory authority over waste April with a letter from Alan J. on a national level to the grow- Riverkeeper announced storage tanks containing Steinberg, the Regional ing problem of groundwater Oits intent to sue Entergy radioactive materials, despite Administrator for EPA Region contamination at a number of Nuclear Northeast for violations the nearly exclusive jurisdiction 2, which includes New York. nuclear power plants around of the Resource Conservation of the Nuclear Regulatory In this letter, Steinberg dismiss- the country by joining the and Recovery Act (RCRA) Commission regarding the es the Congressionals’ call for Union of Concerned Scientists arising from the leaks of radio- operation of U.S. nuclear an EPA investigation, citing the (UCS) in formally petitioning active water at Indian Point. power plants. agency’s confidence that “the the NRC to require all owners The leaks were first discovered Riverkeeper filed the notice Agencies responsible for han- of operating nuclear plants to nearly a year ago, and have letter under the “citizen suit” dling this matter are capable of disclose information on tritium since polluted the groundwater provisions of RCRA, which doing the job well and are pro- leaks at their facilities. The at the plant and are leaching mandates a sixty-day waiting ceeding appropriately.” He petition was filed in January into the Hudson River. RCRA period before the lawsuit is bases his decision on the asser- 2006 by UCS, supported by is a federal statute that filed. We were joined by two tion that the agency has “limit- Riverkeeper and over twenty addresses the storage and treat- local residents who have lived ed authority to regulate other environmental and advo- ment of hazardous waste, near the Hudson and recreated radionuclide emissions or dis- cacy groups. As expected, the including radioactive materials on the river for many years, charges from nuclear power NRC staff issued a Draft stored in underground storage and are concerned about the plants during their routine Directors’ Decision in June, tanks, such as the spent fuel long-term threat to their health operations.” It is clear that the denying the UCS petition. The pools at a nuclear power plant. and the environment posed by leaks from the spent fuel pool agency maintained that the The law requires operators of this ongoing pollution. are not “routine operations.” goals of the petition were met facilities with such tanks to The filing of this letter fol- It is also abundantly clear that by the establishment of the task notify the Environmental lows a strong response by a Mr. Steinberg’s assertions are force, and the industry’s volun- Protection Agency (EPA) when group of New York Congres- flatly contradicted by the EPA’s tary initiative. In a strongly they discover a leak of haz- sional leaders in March, 2006. own regulations implementing worded response to the Draft ardous substances, such as Congressmen Eliot Engel RCRA, which describe a nar- Decision, UCS rebuked the radioactive isotopes, from their (D-NY and Maurice Hinchey row area of nuclear power agency for failing to properly facility. After notification, the (D-NY), joined by Congress- plant operations which fall enforce its own regulations, facility owner must stop the woman Nita Lowey (D-NY) under the agency’s jurisdiction. thereby allowing the industry leak, determine the level of sent a letter to EPA Adminis- Entergy Corporation respond- to set its own standards for environmental contamination, trator Stephen L. Johnson on ed to Riverkeeper by letter in dealing with this widespread, and make plans to remediate March 3, decrying the leaks as late June, disputing our claims long-term environmental prob- the pollution in a timely man- the latest “environmental and threatening to sue River- lem. Riverkeeper and UCS are ner. Entergy Nuclear failed to assault” on the region caused keeper and our co-plaintiffs for awaiting the Final Directors’ notify EPA when they discov- by Indian Point, and demand- filing a “meritless action.” Decision from the NRC, which ered the leak of contaminated ing that the agency initiate its Riverkeeper is continuing to is expected to be announced in water from the Indian Point 2 own investigation. Congress- assess EPA’s failure to respond fall 2006. We will continue to spent fuel pool, thereby avoid- woman Sue Kelly (R-NY) sent in this case and will continue join local and national groups ing the involvement of EPA in her own letter to EPA the same to press the agency to enforce in challenging the NRC’s con- the leak investigation and day that mirrored the demands the law and protect our envi- tinuing lax oversight of the

remediation process. Under made by her colleagues. ronment. nuclear industry. I

18 programHUDSON RIVER WATCHDOG

GET ON BOARD Conservation Advisory Councils Part II: Recognizing Their Potential

BY ASYA MAGAZINNIK Bedford has recently undertaken an envi- But CACs still have a long way to go hen environmental protection ronmental education project, publishing before their full potential is realized. While comes into conflict with short- “white papers” on issues of interest to the certain councils have established them- Wterm human interests, our natu- local government and residents. So far, selves as highly respected, powerful forces ral resources suffer and cannot defend they have completed two papers: one in their communities, others have stagnat- themselves. That’s why we need dedicated about Lyme disease, and another about ed or disappeared over time. Our research community members who see beyond wildlife conservation. At the Town of this summer found that while there are today’s economic benefits to tomorrow’s LaGrange, the CAC has been working for over 40 CAC’s listed as active in the environmental costs. over a decade to preserve the bank of Hudson Valley region, many are not seen Right here on the Hudson River, an Wappinger Creek as a publicly accessible as a resource because they are not active. increase in unsustainable waterfront devel- nature trail. The council enlisted the help For instance, the municipal office of a opment is the latest example of self-interest of local landowners, Boy Scout troops, town in Dutchess County had no idea taking precedence over our natural the Town Board, and the Departments of what a Conservation Advisory Council resources. Realizing the need for increased Parks and Recreation, Transportation, and was, even though theirs is a member of the vigilance, residents of towns and villages Planning to clean up garbage, construct the New York State Association of from Ardsley to Yorktown have been com- trail, and push for legal protection. Conservation Commissions. The same was ing together to form Conservation Initiatives such as the one at LaGrange true of a village in Westchester County – Advisory Councils. teach us an important lesson: protecting and the person who was listed as the chair A Conservation Advisory Council the environment is important for its own was no longer active. Another CAC in (CAC), also called a Conservation Board sake, but also provides a wide range of Dutchess County was intentionally phased or Committee, is a group of citizens secondary benefits. A scenic trail at out by local officials for disagreeing with appointed by the town board to assist local Wappinger Creek is attractive to visitors, certain policies. Village officials initially officials with decisions that impact the and can boost tourism revenues for the hoped to disband the council, but ended environment. Some of the issues that CAC whole town. As CACs consider new proj- up terminating the tenure of several key members regularly address are develop- ects to take on, they should follow this members and never appointing new ones. ment, agriculture, protection of natural example. For instance, a council may Ultimately, it is up to you, the town and resources, and public access. organize a community-wide clean-up or village residents, to help your local adviso- As CACs become more established in planting event. Not only does this beautify ry councils get off the ground and remain their communities, they are able to move the area at no cost, it helps people form an active force. To find out if your region beyond their basic role of advising govern- new friendships and feel connected to their has a Conservation Advisory Council or ment officials; they can develop and imple- neighbors. Another possibility is to draft a how you can create one, e-mail Sabrina ment their own local initiatives. For concrete set of guidelines for new develop- Wells, Watchdog Program Coordinator at instance, the CACs at Croton-on-Hudson ment, containing a minimum environmen- [email protected], or call us at 800- and Cortlandt have been overseeing volun- tal standard that every proposal must 21-RIVER ext 242. I teer cleanup events in honor of Earth Day meet. When only the highest quality of for the past several years. The construction is permitted, the entire town Asya Magazinnik, who was an intern at Riverkeeper, is currently a sophomore at Vassar Conservation Board at the Town of remains beautiful and everyone’s property college. During her internship with Riverkeeper, values rise. she worked with Chief Investigator Basil Seggos and Watchdog Coordinator Sabrina Wells.

19 currents we see peo- emains. . e flow into the Hud- vancy et her June 28, 2006 Public swimming beach at Kingston Point just north of Rondout Creek. The area has had record rains the last three days which cause many sewage plants to over son. Y ple swimming. Riverkeeper contacted the Ulster County Health Department and asked if water quality was routinely tested after wet weather events to check for sewage-related contam- Conservancy. Squatter Conservancy. camps like this are frag- menting some of the best habitat that r Riverkeeper will notify CSX and The Nature Conser 3 3 5 e . 1 eek par- 06 es with rims the “wild” e wher eline is. This one is – located on land owned prime habitat right y s s about 10 cubic yards of trash – mostly plastic drink bottles, plastic dock foam and tir still attached. June 28, 20 Small camps like this one are springing up all over the upper part of the estu- ar It’ by CSX railroad just north of Mill Creek in Stuyvesant. It’ next to the Mill Cr cel owned by The Natur shor new; I first saw it today 4 eek. - e 06 collected e om “Keep Rock partnered with volun- e eachable only on foot or r by boat. W W teers fr land Beautiful” to clean up three small beaches between Nyack and Haverstraw which ar May 2006May Sewage, oil and trash sludge on Newtown Cr 2006May Illegal dredging at the Englewood Boat Basin by Palisades Interstate Park. BUSTED! June 28, 20 2 3 2 1

PSCOMB I L

HN O J Y B

LOG

BOAT BOAT PATROL PATROL 20 is rigged which doesn’t 8 stand a chance of doing any good. Riverkeeper is contacting the terminal.

9 July 26, 2006 This is a church-owned property on the Harlem River at Highbridge. We’re 4 told it’s used as a kennel for exotic hunting dogs ination at this public it more difficult for River- and as a homeless shelter. beach. The department keeper to challenge pol- Whatever the purpose – 8 responded “no;” testing is luters – but not impossible. they’re using the Harlem done only three times a River as a dumpster. year: on 7/13, 8/3 and 7 July 7, 2006 Police, DEC and DEP 8/17. With all the talk of A “bouquet” of discharge boats go by this site fre- opening additional swim- pipes midway up quently. New material is ming beaches on the Newtown Creek at the being dumped all the time. Hudson, shouldn’t testing Exxon spill. The only Riverkeeper has contacted be more thorough and active discharge today is the church. shouldn’t testing be done Exxon’s. The DEC has after storms as a matter of given Exxon A PERMIT to course? discharge ground water tainted with petrochemi- 6 June 29, 2006 cals – it runs 24/7. Raw sewage and rainwater discharging into the Hud- 8 July 13, 2006 son at Troy after heavy A discharge at the Mobil rains. The green sign terminal at Albany where above the discharge is a there is a permanently NY State Department of rigged oil boom – they Environmental Protection must have a leak problem. (DEP) PERMIT sign. I’ve Recently a new boom and been told that there are oil absorb were deployed. around 60,000 DEC pollu- but it looks like someone tion permits in New York forgot that there is a tide. 9 State. These permits make We often see this – a boom

7

6 5 21 currents - cours . age dis- age ed sew ea contain both eat ted outfall from a pri- from outfall ted eas and water mit is that the develop- els of tr oject ar n lev pr y e Corners subdivision consists of Corners subdivision on 309 104 homes to be built and located acres in Southeast, York in the heart of the New City watershed. The two parcels that make up the 309- acr wetland ar es, as well as Holly Stream. chief continuing Riverkeeper’s concer ment may impact those surface waters and ultimately the drinking water source reser- voirs to which they flow ed that a private sewage treatment sewage ed that a private t ed a SPDES per t epor epor ont hdog r atc W ough A ysical evidence of unhealth y: community member r A either thr y: , y t, or through the supple- Montgomer harging due to inactivity at the site. due to harging once will reinvestigate Riverkeeper t oodbur or ound significant ph Following this victory, In its current incarnation, the oposed Meadows at Deans vate sewage treatment plant that is possibly discharging beyond its permitted beyond that is possibly discharging plant treatment sewage vate discharge and requested Watchdog with the the site allowances. investigated We the DEC. and violations from reports monitoring is not At this time the outfall disc activities recommence. W a tributary into of sewage levels abnormal discharging was a subdivision from stream. spawning a trout that leads to the site; investigated Riverkeeper we f the DEC. the issue to and reported The DEC issued citations and is now charge of with the plant on a consent order. a copy working has requested Riverkeeper and will submit comments as needed. consent order the finalized F Riverkeeper will monitor the scoping process and will continue to work with the work and will continue to the scoping process will monitor Riverkeeper issues. the various address association to homeowner’s was focused on the Planning on was focused failure continuing to Board’s sufficient public undertake project alterations, review of changes, and site regulatory that have taken modifications the FEIS was com- place since the appel- pleted in 1991. As is late court found, this where a precisely the situation necessary. supplemental EIS is that the The court also held lead agency Planning Board as coor- had failed to adequately other dinate its review with the process. involved agencies in Riverkeeper will continue its advocacy on whatever fr necessar defending this decision in any high- future appeal to the state’s est cour mental review process mandated by the appellate decision. pr I I ork - o t oject A ILDE W otection of the HRISTOPHER C and has met with MT Y B iverkeeper and other envi- and iverkeeper and community ronmental a signifi- groups achieved Our longstanding battle variety of changes since the decade ago. This is a mo er dumping paint into the stream.er dumping paint into The an unsustainable development pro- an unsustainable development mentous decision in New Y and State environmental law, significant for all those fighting for the pr and quality Croton Watershed of life in Putnam County. against the Meadows pr cant victory in late summer cant victory appellate court when a state requiring issued a decision preparation of a supplemental state- environmental impact at ment (EIS) for the Meadows Deans Corners subdivision the Town project proposed by a lower of Southeast, reversing appellate court decision. The agency court found the lead considered had not adequately a last EIS was finalized well over a R o

ed t t

ace inside a boom, as aler

as a house paint tip came in that oil was seeping into the Hudson River seeping into tip came in that oil was the surf

A o eeper w k

er

Riv in the

Watchdog reported a milky substance in an unnamed stream. reported Watchdog Case! y: A

TLINE CALLS Victory err ce of the substance w HO erkeeper immediately alerted the Westchester County Police,Westchester the Environmental alerted immediately erkeeper dinator, assists the Hudson River Team by determining whether the matter should be dispatched to one of our Watchdogs for further for Watchdogs one of our to should be dispatched whether the matter determining by Team dinator, assists the Hudson River

Dobbs F Irvington: Croton on Hudson: Croton Riv the Building Dept. to the situation reported Dept.Watchdog in Irvington. The The sour near a Metro North train station. train North near a Metro the site, investigated Riverkeeper an oily found substance bubbling t posal adjacent to the Hudson River that could lead to heavy erosion due to erosion heavy that could lead to the Hudson River posal adjacent to slope and fill issues. the Planning Board to comments submitted Riverkeeper will be required. Impact Statement that an Environmental determined who have determine the scope of the problem and solutions. the scope of the problem determine closely moni- continue to We the issue with the MTA. and address the site tor

owner was fined by the Building Dept. fined by was owner a citation from received and the painter the County Police. Meadows I I I Each month Riverkeeper receives dozens of reports of possible environmental violations. of possible environmental of reports dozens receives month Riverkeeper Each Program Watchdog Wells, Sabrina Riverkeeper’s Coor investigation, federal, to referred or local authorities, state Riverkeeper. action by enforcement or become the subject of citizen can Sabrina [email protected]. sending an email to or by samples of ext 242 or 800-21-RIVER are at 914-478-4501 The following be reached our pollution hotline: by received reports ¥ 22 NEW CASES

Alpine and Englewood Boat Basins (Englewood Cliffs, NJ) Based on observations from our Patrol Boat, Riverkeeper was instrumental in getting the Army Corps of Engineers to issue a cease and desist order regarding unpermitted dredging at Englewood Boat Basin. This dredging violated the Clean Water Act and occurred during the spring spawning season. Riverkeeper continues to monitor dredging operations at both of these boat basins.

CSX Railroad Ties (Highland, NY) Riverkeeper was successful in getting CSX Railroad to clean up approximately 100 rail- road ties discarded in a marsh west of the CSX rail tracks in Highland, NY. This marsh is used by kayakers and is prime habitat for fish and birds.

Callanan Quarry (Kingston, NY) Riverkeeper is in discussions with Callanan Industries regarding the operation of their quarry on Rondout Creek in Kingston, NY. The quarry is depositing crushed stone on the banks and in Rondout Creek causing erosion of the banks and filling of the creek. Riverkeeper hopes to work with Callanan to find a successful remedy to this situation.

UPDATED CASES

Hudson River PCB Superfund Site (Ft Edward, NY) The Town of Fort Edward intervened in the proceeding brought by the EPA to approve their Consent Decree with General Electric Company requesting that the federal court allow the Town to regulate the proposed dewatering facility to be constructed under the agreement to commence dredging the Hudson River. This matter was heard by federal Judge David N. Hurd in Utica, NY, on August 2, 2006. The EPA also announced that dredging would be delayed once again, not to begin until the spring of 2008. GE began a dispute resolution proceeding to contest EPA’s interpretation of the Consent Decree regarding the replacement bathymetry of the shoreline after dredging and GE’s responsibili- ty to ensure that communities using River water have access to uncontaminated sources of drinking water during the cleanup.

Danskammer Power Plant (Newburgh, NY) On July 24, 2006, the Pace Environmental Litigation Clinic filed a lawsuit on behalf of Riverkeeper challenging the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) decision to renew the 19-year-old Clean Water Act permit for the Danskammer Generating Facility. The lawsuit, filed in Supreme Court of New York State, alleges that the DEC ignored a federal and state mandate to use the “best technology available” to avoid environmental damage caused by power plants using river water for their cooling water systems.

The plant, operated by Dynegy Northeast Generation, Inc. is located on the western shore of the Hudson River in the Town of Newburgh, Orange County, New York. Currently, the Danskammer Generating Station uses a once-through cooling system that the EPA’s own scientists predict yields a zero survival rate for fish in all life stages that are drawn through the system. Technology is available, known as closed-cycle cooling, that uses 96% less water and substantially reduces fish mortality. The recent DEC decision failed to require the Danskammer facility to upgrade to this technology. Additionally, the DEC decision allows the facility to report fish mortality based on an incorrect baseline, resulting in the reporting of deceptively low fish mor- tality levels.

Catskill Mountains Chapter, Trout Unlimited v. City of New York In a stunning victory for Riverkeeper, fishermen and environmentalists, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit ruled that New York City has polluted Esopus Creek in violation of the Clean Water Act. In the Second Circuit, the City unsuccessfully argued that Schoharie Reservoir and Esopus Creek were essentially the same water body because both are part of the City’s water supply system. The court’s decision makes it clear that Schoharie Reservoir and Esopus Creek are separate bodies of water. Therefore, the discharges from Shandaken Tunnel are an addition and require a Clean Water Act permit. The City currently has no such permit. The case has now been remanded back to the District Court.

23 Meet Riverkeeper’s Summer Interns

Matthew Bennett, a second- year student at Fordham Uni- versity School of Law, interned with the Hudson River Pro- gram. He worked with fellow

s intern Jay Simpson on Hudson River pollution complaints,

w many of them forwarded by Riverkeeper’s patrol boat cap- e tain. He also researched various points of law for Riverkeeper’s n senior attorney, including ques- tions relating to the General Emilee Drobbin, a second-year The outreach tour they coordi- r Electric PCB cleanup; advised student at Vermont Law School nated was geared toward high

e staffers on local land use law and a graduate of their Masters schools, colleges and environ- and the State Environmental of Studies in Environmental mental organizations along the b Quality Review Act (SEQR); Law program, interned with Hudson. Additionally, Dan and and prepared a manual for the Hudson River Program. Brad provided research on a

m those producing comments on She worked on litigation con- variety of environmental topics environmental impact statements cerning the New York State (many relevant to Riverkeeper) e for proposed developments. permits for four power plants to create a teacher’s guide, on the Hudson River whose which will be provided with

m Nikola Berger is majoring outdated cooling systems are the film’s DVD. in environmental studies and killing massive numbers of fish political science at the City and other aquatic life. Jonathan Lew, a student at University of New York. She Roger Williams University worked for the Hudson River Robert Friedman, a senior at School of Law, performed legal Program, gathering research Hastings High School, helped research for the Watershed on the technology and cost of to research and draft solutions Program on issues that affect power plant cooling systems to sprawl-style development for New York City’s drinking across the country and past the Watershed Program’s up- water quality. He also created retrofits of such systems. Her coming report for watershed a document for the “citizen work will support Riverkeep- citizens, elected officials, toolbox” section of Riverkeep- er’s campaign to force power businesspeople, and other er’s web site that will inform plants on the Hudson River to stakeholders. He also compiled the public about current regu- install modern cooling systems a matrix of natural resource lations governing drinking News about that will dramatically reduce protection ordinances in water quality. Riverkeeper events, fish kills. municipalities in the Croton volunteers, staff and donors portion of the watershed. Laurence Luo, an environmen- Lissa Casey, a second-year tal attorney from Beijing, law student at the University Daniel Lebost, a sophomore China, began a four-month of Oregon, interned with the at McDaniel College, and internship with Riverkeeper and Indian Point Campaign. She Brad Cantor, a junior at Colby our international umbrella researched the re-licensing College, worked with film organization, the Waterkeeper process for nuclear power producer and Director Tom Alliance, over the summer. plants in the U.S. and prepared Weidlinger to promote and Laurence is observing how memoranda about future coordinate a tour for his recent Riverkeeper is structured and strategies for the Indian Point documentary, “Swim for the the methods we employ to ful- campaign. She also helped the River.” The film focuses on fill our mission to protect the Hudson River Program by Christopher Swain, who swam Hudson River and its tributar- working on litigation. the length of the Hudson to ies. Laurence has been translat- raise environmental awareness. ing New York State’s fish 24 Riverkeeper, EILEEN FISHER and Irvington- consumption advisories into his Jay Simpson, an attorney area Residents Unite for Earth Day Clean-up native language in an effort to pursuing an LL.M. in Envi- benefit Chinese subsistence ronmental Law from Pace Riverkeeper joined with EILEEN FISHER company employees anglers in New York City and University School of Law, and Westchester County residents on Earth Day 2006 for a along the Hudson River. He interned with the Hudson morning clean-up of Scenic Hudson Park in Irvington. EILEEN and the Alliance are working to River Program. He followed FISHER staff initiated the event as a way to engage company start Keeper programs in China. up on pollution cases first employees in a hands-on environmental activity and to con- identified by Riverkeeper’s nect with the local community. Riverkeeper invited our mem- Asya Magazinnik, a sophomore patrol boat captain and also bers in the Westchester area to participate. at Vassar College, worked with assisted with Hudson River More than 40 local residents and staff of Riverkeeper and Chief Investigator Basil Seggos development issues. Jay helped EILEEN FISHER collected garbage and debris along the west on a report detailing the public to stop illegal dredging at a and south ends of the park where it meets the Hudson River. health, environmental, and eco- boat basin in the Palisades Participants included members of Hastings High School’s nomic impacts of combined Interstate Park during his environmental club. sewer overflows in New York internship. EILEEN FISHER is a valued supporter of Riverkeeper. The City. She also assisted Watchdog company’s most recent grant will allow Riverkeeper to hire a Program Coordinator Sabrina Maura Yates, a sophomore woman intern to assist our Hudson River Program staff with Wells in following up on at Arizona State University, legal reports, litigation, advocacy, and outreach. incoming reports of pollution worked with the Hudson and development along the River Program to initiate a river, and began organizing and sustainable development pro- designing a new Hudson River gram along the waterfront. Program newsletter. She collaborated with Colum- bia University’s Graduate School Emily Nicolosi, a junior at of Architecture, Planning and the University of Vermont Preservation to help outline majoring in Anthropology their fall 2006 design studio and Studio Art, did research that will address development for the Indian Point Campaign issues along the Yonkers on renewable energy and the waterfront. Maura also com- effects of uranium mining on piled a database of the devel- indigenous peoples. opments along the river and began identifying a set of crite- Michael O’Keefe, a student ria for developers to abide by at Tufts University, participated in order to assure sustainable, in an investigation of contami- environmentally responsible nants in New York City’s development. drinking water, and assisted the Watershed Program with an Jonathan Zellner, a junior upcoming report on solutions concentrating in Government to sprawl-style development. at Hamilton College, worked with the Indian Point team Michael Plumb, a second-year and Riverkeeper President student at Columbia University Alex Matthiessen to construct School of Law, interned with a comprehensive timeline of R E H S I the Hudson River Program. the Indian Point Campaign. F N E E

He assisted in writing a report He also provided research on L I E F detailing the economic benefits the historical relationship be- O Y S E T of using low impact develop- tween the Nuclear Regulatory R U O C

ment to help eliminate overflows Commission and the nuclear S O T O

of sewage into New York City power industry. H P waterways. 25 s w e

n The 17th Annual Shad Fest Was a Hit Rain & Shine r e b m e m

CHILD ENJOYS SAV-A-TREE’S TREE CLIMBING ACTIVITIES Z T I W O R O H I N R A M F O Y S E T R U O C S O T O H P

iverkeeper, Mary Richardson Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy, ROBERT KENNEDY, JR., MARY RICHARDSON Jr. hosted this year’s 17th Annual Shad Fest and Hudson KENNEDY AND RIVERKEEPER ALEX MATTHIESSEN WELCOME RIVERKEEPER’S RRiver Celebration on May 21st at Boscobel Restoration in NEWEST BOARD MEMBER MIKE RICHTER Garrison, NY. Marking Riverkeeper’s 40th Anniversary with less than picture-perfect weather, the day was dampened by rain but definitely not in spirit. We had a record breaking year in ticket sales and guests thoroughly enjoyed all of the wonders that the Shad Fest and its participants bring. Children enjoyed Shad Fest favorites such as tree climbing activi- ties sponsored by Sav-A-Tree, pony rides, face painting, dancing puppeteers, storytelling and the creative activities under the Whole COLD SPRING PIPES & DRUMS Food Kids Tent, where children and parents were delighted by the Whole Foods volunteers and the environmentally educational and fun projects that they provided. Adults also enjoyed helping us celebrate Riverkeeper’s unprece- dented environmental successes on the Hudson River and in Hudson Valley communities. Local Hudson Valley wine and beer and the delicious gourmet food of Mt. Kisco Seafood were special RIVERKEEPER CHIEF INVESTIGATOR BASIL SEGGOS AND 2006 SHAD FEST treats, and everyone enjoyed the talents of our musical guests, local HONOREE IRENE KLEMENTOWICZ favorites Uncle Wade and Dar Williams, and the rocking Irish tunes of Black 47. Despite the downpour, loyal Riverkeeper members, guests and sponsors persevered and were awarded with a gorgeous sunny end- ing to the afternoon. Riverkeeper would like to thank everyone who came out to sup- port the Shad Fest – the community event that is so very dear to our hearts. This year’s celebration is a true testament to how much people love Riverkeeper and the Shad Fest. Very special thanks to our event product sponsors: Whole Foods Market, Mt. Kisco Seafood & The Fish Cellar Restaurant, Robert’s American Gourmet, Prospero Wines, Ben & Jerry’s of Mt. Kisco, Clif Bar, Annie’s Homegrown, Hain Celestial Foods, Hyde Park Brewing, Captain Lawrence Brewing, Sunshine Burgers, Omaha Steaks, Newman’s Own, Barbara’s Bakery, IZZE Beverages, Ramapo Valley Brewery and Keeper Springs, and of course, thank you to our many hard-working volunteers. 26 New Riverkeeper Board Members

Bill Abranowicz, Houston, TX; the Bibliothèque previously served on several Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, a professional Nationale in Paris; the Inter- committees of the Association and other major magazines, photographer, has national Center of Photography of the Bar of the City of New and has been featured in been a stellar in New York; and the Thessalo- York as a member and officer. Vanity Fair. She also writes a Riverkeeper vol- niki Museum of Photography Binta has volunteered with the monthly column for Hamptons unteer, supporter, and a local and the Goulandris Museum in Business Council for Peace and Gotham magazines. environmental activist for many Greece. He is the author of The which assists women in war- Amanda designated River- years. In 2002, along with his Greek File: Images from a ravaged countries through the keeper a beneficiary of Polo equally dedicated wife, Andrea Mythic Land (Rizzoli). development of micro-enterpris- Jeans Co.’s 2005 G.I.V.E. Raisfeld, Bill inaugurated Bill is a volunteer firefighter es; and Prep for Prep, where she Campaign and generously Reflected Light, Riverkeeper’s in Bedford, New York, where taught Aspects of Leadership. donated her modeling fee from photography auction fundraiser. he resides with Andrea and Binta holds a BA (with hon- the campaign to Riverkeeper. He has since led the successful their three children, all River- ors) from Barnard College and In addition, along with her biennial event and secured pho- keeper volunteers. a JD from Columbia Law mother, Riverkeeper board tographs from leading artists Binta Niambi School. From 2003 to 2004, member Anne Hearst, Amanda for the auction. This year Bill, Brown is an she was a fellow in the Coro co-hosted a successful fundrais- with gallery owner Peter MacGill, attorney at Foundation’s Leadership New er for Riverkeeper in the has expanded the scope of the Cravath, Swaine York program, which brings Hamptons in 2005. auction to include photographic & Moore LLP, together professionals from the Mike Richter work and other media. where her practice includes private and public sectors to is the former Bill is a contributing photog- corporate finance, corporate explore major policy issues fac- New York rapher to Condé Nast Traveler governance and general corpo- ing New York City. Rangers goalie and House & Garden. His rate representation. Amanda Hearst, who helped lead work has been featured in Binta serves on the boards of an art history major the team to the 1994 Stanley Vogue, The New York Times the Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy at Fordham Univer- Cup championship. Mike is Magazine, Martha Stewart Committee and Opus 118- sity, helped to estab- finishing a degree in Ethics, Living, and other leading publi- Harlem School of Music. She is lish and is working Politics, and Economics with a cations throughout the world. a member of the Chairman’s to build Riverkeeper’s new jun- concentration in Environmen- Bill’s photographs are includ- Board of New Jobs for New ior committee of the Board. tal Policy at Yale University. ed in the permanent collections York, Network 20/20, the New She serves as that committee’s Mike worked with a number of the Smithsonian Museum in York Philharmonic’s Young chair. of non-profit children’s chari- Washington, D.C.; The Getty New Yorker Patrons Program As an Elite model, Amanda ties during his time in New Museum in Los Angeles; The and the Metropolitan Opera’s has appeared on the covers of York such as A Wish and a Menil Collection Library in Young Associate program. She Town & Country, International (continued on page 28)

Departing Board Members

Riverkeeper thanks retiring Dick also served on the of Physical Science at SUNY, years he was a developer in the board members Dick Knabel board and as vice president of Westchester Community College, Greenwich, Connecticut area and Sy Schwartz for their ener- Hudson River Sloop Clearwater where he began teaching in where he emphasized green gy, enthusiasm, wisdom and in the early 1970s, and was a 1980. He specialized in both development and the practice of generosity over the years. 25-year member and officer of energy and environmental retaining as much natural habi- Dick joined the Hudson Federated Conservationists of problems as they relate to con- tat as possible. In the 1970s, Sy River Fishermen’s Association, Westchester County. He recent- temporary society. For the past took up the cause of alternative Riverkeeper’s predecessor ly retired after 18 years as a 35 years he has been concerned energy and energy efficiency. He organization, in 1970, and is a trustee of the Hudson River about drinking water protection, designed and built a demonstra- founding member of Riverkeeper. Improvement Fund, a grant and helped launch Riverkeeper’s tion solar and energy efficient He served as Chairman of the program of the Hudson River campaign to protect the New home in Greenwich which board from 2000-2005, a peri- Foundation that supports proj- York City watersheds. attracted a great deal of media od during which we doubled ects that promote public use Sy Schwartz is one of the ori- attention and more than 5,000 our staff and expanded our and enjoyment of the river. ginal funders of Riverkeeper’s visitors over three years. programs. Dick is an Emeritus Professor Watershed Program. For 40 (continued on page 28) 27 s NEW BOARD MEMBERS DEPARTING MEMBERS New Documentary on the Hudson River: w

e continued from page 27 continued from page 27

n Swim for the River r

e Smile and Touch The Future, Sy has been a remarkably gen- b S R m and supports numerous envi- erous and enthusiastic supporter E BY DANIEL LEBOST D e L I H m

ronmental groups. of Riverkeeper’s Watershed C n the new documen- L I S A B

During his career with the Program. His multi-year grants I tary Swim for the F O

Rangers, Mike became the first have helped us to sustain Y River, Christopher S

E I T R

member of the team to post vigorous campaigns against U Swain shows true O C

300 wins. He was a three-time sprawl-styled development and O courage as he swims T O H National Hockey League All- lackluster enforcement in the P 315 miles down the Star and received the Most watersheds, and to educate and Hudson River to raise Valuable Player award at the empower watershed residents environmental aware- 1994 All-Star Game. The to advocate for sustainable ness in communities Rangers retired his number development. Sy’s most recent along the way. Swain’s (#35) in 2004. Mike also repre- contribution, a three-year grant motive is his mission to sented the United States on the of $150,000, will enable bring people together 1988, 1998, and 2002 Olympic Riverkeeper to intensify our to further protect the teams. He was the top goalie work in the critical Catskill and Hudson River’s natural for the 2002 team, which won Delaware watersheds, which resources, if for no the silver medal. provide 90 percent of New other reason than so Mike and his wife Veronica York City’s drinking water. people can swim in it. live in Connecticut with their The film is produced by three sons. prestigious industry and festival awards-winner Tom Weidlinger who has produced documen- tary films for the past twenty-eight years. The film captures the natu- Remembering Tucker Crawford ral beauty of the Hudson River today as well as the destructive power of human interactions from the past to the present. BY ALLISON CHAMBERLAIN Swain begins his journey at the source of the Hudson River at homas “Tucker” Crawford, a long-time Hudson River fish- Lake Tear of the Clouds in Adirondack Park, New York. His jour- erman with such nicknames as the “Sturgeon General” and ney is long and takes nearly two months to complete. Several stops T“King Crabber,” passed away in July at the age of 80. are made at adjacent towns along the way where Swain encourages Tucker, who was born Jan. 6, 1926, had sustained his family discussion about the Hudson River and informs communities during the Great Depression by catching fish through holes he about his mission. would cut in the frozen surface of the river. Tom Weidlinger is the voice of the past, speaking of the history He became somewhat of a local legend over the years, and spent of the paper mills in New York, The Finch Pryn Company, PCBs, most of his life on the mighty Hudson. Newtown Creek, the clear water project, the environmental group In the 1992 documentary “The Last Rivermen,” produced by Riverkeeper and more. Riverkeeper, Tucker was featured among a group of fishermen The one-hour documentary moves at a flowing pace, highlight- asked to share their experiences during the decline of the commer- ing key issues, elucidating important points, sometimes using cial fishing industry along the humor as a guide and other times solemnly serious. Perhaps the Hudson. most compelling aspect of the film, however, is the real-life por- According to Robert F. Kennedy, trayal of a new generation of people gathering together to save the Jr., Riverkeeper’s Chief Prosecuting Hudson River from ever undergoing harm again. Attorney, Tucker was a “champion The film also includes an educational Viewer’s Guide, well-suited of the river and an icon of the com- for educators teaching students about the history of the Hudson mercial fishing industry.” Kennedy River, the impact industry has had on our natural environs, and also praised him as “an encyclope- the important role citizens play in our civic society. dia of knowledge about commercial Riverkeeper staff, along with Swain and Weidlinger, will embark fishing on the Hudson,” remarking on a film tour of Swim for the River this fall. The documentary that he “knew more about the will also be available to the public. For more information, visit Hudson River than any scientist in the state.” http://www.boyswillbemen.com/SWIM/index.html. Tucker will be remembered for his devotion and dedication to the Hudson River. He will be sorely missed.

28 iverkeeper’s Annual Benefit was held on April 19th, 2006 at Pier Sixty, Chelsea Piers in New York City. The e evening was dedicated to honoring Veronique and Bob Pittman and Steelcase. The event raised nearly $2 million s for Riverkeeper and our programs. a Over 700 guests enjoyed the hilarious Darrell Hammond from Saturday Night Live, who hosted the event, as c R l well as the beautiful melodies of Carly Simon, who made a rare public appearance. Carly was also joined on stage by e her two incredibly talented children Ben and Sally Taylor. Together they gave an intimate rendition of “You Can Close e Your Eyes.” t Other notable attendees who came out to support Riverkeeper included Michael Douglas, Dan Aykroyd, William S Baldwin, Edie Falco, Richard Belzer, Susie Essman, Moby, Mike Richter, Paul Shaffer, Joy Behar, Annie Leibovitz, Ellen Barkin, Andre Balazs and Anne Hearst. & Newly appointed Board President George Hornig presented Robert Pew of Steelcase with one of the 2006 honoree n awards for Steelcase’s continued environmentally sustainable industry practices. And Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. presented a Veronique and Bob Pittman with an award for their commitment to philanthropic work and dedication to raising aware- ness and funds for myriad social causes—most importantly, those involving our environment. m t The evening also featured a live auction to raise money for costs associated with securing expert testimony for sever- t i al Riverkeeper legal cases against corporate Goliaths. Catherine Crier of Court TV helped to motivate the audience and

P raised an additional $150,000! Please join us for another star-studded benefit next spring to raise funds for Riverkeeper’s important work. b o B & e u q i n o r e V s ROBERT F. K ENNEDY, JR. PRESENTING AN AWARD TO VERONIQUE AND BOB PITTMAN FOR THEIR COMMIT- r MENT TO PHILANTHROPIC WORK AND DEDICATION TO RAISING AWARENESS AND FUNDS FOR MYRIAD CAUSES. ROBERT F. K ENNEDY, JR. AND MICHAEL DOUGLAS. o n o H e c n a D r e n Y E L S G n N I i L L L I B N D N A F O Y 6 S E T R U 0 O C S 0 O T O H P 2 MRS. ROBERT F. KENNEDY WITH RIVERKEEPER ALEX MATTHIESSEN. CARLY SIMON AND HER CHILDREN, MUSICIANS SALLY TAYLOR AND BEN TAYLOR. 29 UNSUNG JUDITH ENCK HEROES

BY ROBERT GOLDSTEIN vision they can become complacent, apa- his edition’s unsung hero is Judith thetic, even captured. But Judith is a glori- Enck. As environmental policy advi- ous exception. Tsor in the New York State Attorney “Judith is a special individual who General’s office, Judith has proven herself engenders respect and affection and who time and time again to be one of govern- has been at the heart of the entire environ- ment’s true environmental visionaries and mental agenda we’ve crafted over the last strategists. She has amassed a record of eight years,” said her boss, Attorney accomplishments matched only by her General Elliot Spitzer. “From the global always positive and upbeat approach to the warming initiative to improving air quali- challenges we all face when campaigning ty along the eastern seaboard by cracking for environmental issues. down on dirty power plants to protecting But this is not news. Judith has been Although the substance of her local communities, Judith has been at the taking-on environmental problems for 25 work, fighting the good fight, has center of every issue we’ve worked on and years in a career that includes service as remained true to all her past efforts, has been a vital presence and voice of clar- Executive Director of both Environmental it is in the context in which she now ity. She is a joy to work with and a spec- Advocates and the Non-Profit Resource continues to accomplish environ- tacular advocate for the environment in Center, and as Senior Environmental every instance.” At the AG's office, Judith mental goals that we applaud her. Advisor to New York Public Interest has been a clear voice for cleanup of PCBs Group (NYPIRG). by the General Electric Company in the In fact, Judith’s record as an environ- Source Reduction Council and the NYS Hudson, for smart development on the mental activist is a who’s-who and what’s- Temporary Commission on Returnable waterfront, and for punishing polluters. what of environmental causes and organi- Beverage Containers. Now let’s be clear, environmental policy zations throughout the Hudson Valley and Each of those positions, campaigns and from a governmental point of view is not the state of New York. She was President awards, along with many aspects of her a simple thing to formulate. Compromise of the Board of Directors of the Hudson remarkable career could be the basis for is usually the order of the day, and dou- River Sloop Clearwater, and a co-founder mention in this column. Although the ble-speak rhetoric often allows for duplici- of Rensselaer County Environmental substance of her work, fighting the good tous decision-making. That is the context Action. She led the campaign to save the fight, has remained true to all her past we’re talking about. For someone to thrive 100-foot Barberville Waterfall from a efforts, it is in the context in which she in that setting they must have a clear damaging hydroelectric project and now continues to accomplish environmen- understanding of the implications of any designed and implemented one of the first tal goals that we applaud her. decision, and the will to translate that mandatory recycling programs in upstate That context, environmental policy understanding into policy. Judith is con- New York. advisor in a high-profile government versant in all the issues that matter most She has won acclaim for that work, agency, makes accomplishments all the to Riverkeeper and the environmental including Outstanding Achievement greater, while the necessary anonymity community. While realistic, she transmits awards from Sierra Club; the Annual inherent in such a position requires that the optimism necessary to maintain the- Social Justice Award from the Social her work remains largely unsung. good-fight and point to alternatives when Justice Center of Albany; and among oth- Bureaucracy has a way of enfolding our tactics are temporarily derailed. ers, the Local Hero Award from Capitol enthusiastic advocates, and blending them For these, and a lifetime of accomplish- Magazine. Judith has been appointed by into the amalgam of an agency by restrict- ments (sung and unsung), Judith Enck is state legislators and the governor to serve ing their view of the big picture. Enticed our hero, and one whom we can continue on a number of advisory boards including: by relationships with the very industries to rely on for her wise environmental

the State Superfund Management Board, that they regulate, cut-off from the advo- thinking for years to come. I the State Solid Waste Management Board, cacy groups that once fueled their fervor, the Coalition of Northeast Governor’s and mandated to function using tunnel- 30 Children Making A Difference

BY ALLISON CHAMBERLAIN

To many people, the fondest memories of childhood involve tearing open the colorful ribboned gifts received during birthdays or holidays and reveling at being the first kid in the neighborhood to have the latest toy. These gifts are often a measure of the child’s status among his or her siblings and peers. Many children live from one holiday to the next awaiting the payload of new gadgets that they have been hinting at for months, even though they may already have all the latest gear.

ortunately, there are still supporting and becoming a part some children willing to of Riverkeeper. Riverkeeper is Fdiscard their IPODs in one of the few organizations order to help make the world a where the citizens are as much For the last two years, backyard. The fact that citizens better place to live. This selfless of an integral part of the mis- Victoria Groner has selflessly can become involved and play a heroism has recently been sion as the employees. Citizens asked that instead of receiving hands-on role in protecting the demonstrated by two com- are able to become involved gifts for her birthday, her par- river intrigued her. She presented mendable youths. with the organization by keep- ents and friends make a dona- a check to Alex Matthiessen, Harry Adler recently had his ing vigil over the river, from tion to an organization of her Hudson Riverkeeper and Bar Mitzvah and decided that reporting pollution to helping choice. President, at this year’s Shad instead of receiving gifts, he clean it up. Harry found it This year, Riverkeeper was Festival. wanted to donate the money he interesting and was excited that the fortunate recipient of this It is so important that chil- received to Riverkeeper. Harry citizens could actually take part generous act. Victoria chose dren are becoming involved in is a native Rocklander and the in the fight to save the river. At Riverkeeper because she has organizations that will protect, Hudson River has always been the end of his party, each guest become interested in the envi- preserve, and defend the Hudson a part of his life. Many of his was given a Riverkeeper mug as ronment and would like to Valley’s most precious gift, the weekends are filled by enjoying a present. The adults who become one of the many citi- Hudson River. By educating the river and its vast and majes- attended the party walked away zens who are fighting to protect children on issues such as pollu- tic beauty. When I asked what with a little piece of the river, it. The Hudson River has tion, clean drinking water, and specifically made him choose but more importantly, they always been a part of her life, the importance of protecting the Riverkeeper as the recipient of learned about the organization and always will be, so she environment, we are helping to such a wonderful and thought- and the mission of Riverkeeper decided that she wanted to give ensure that our mighty Hudson ful gift, the decision was based was brought home to his guests. her birthday presents to an will be protected, preserved, on the fact that he felt he could What a wonderful way to cele- organization that is preserving and cherished for generations actually make a difference by brate such a joyous occasion. and defending her proverbial to come. I 31 Getting in touch with Riverkeeper…

Address E Mail 828 South Broadway [email protected] Tarrytown, NY 10591 White Plains Office Phone 914.422.4343 914.478.4501

Fax 914.478.4527

Website www.riverkeeper.org

Riverkeeper 828 South Broadway Tarrytown, NY 10591