The Cuyahoga River,
After the Flames
On June 22, 1969, the Cuyahoga River caught on fire. This dramatic event, which got international news coverage, is still a reminder of the need to protect the environment. But this blot on the environment actually led to the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and passage of major environmental laws such as the Clean Water Act in 1972.
Today, the Middle Cuyahoga River has been transformed. Oxygen levels in the river have increased while pollutant and bacteria levels have decreased.
EPA scientists determined that the Kent portion of the Cuyahoga River now supports robust populations of northern hogsucker, greenside darters, rock bass and. Northern pike, smallmouth bass and rock bassere large enough to support excellent recreational fishing. Macroinvertebrate populations improved dramatically…healthy bugs make healthy fish. The 2007 biosurvey affirms that the portion of the middle Cuyahoga River in and near Kent is in FULL attainmen for aquatic life.
It's no coincidence that Kent's portion of the Cuyahoga River has turned the corner and is now showing healthy indicators across the board. Kent's Dam Project has proven to be one of the most environmentally friendly things we've ever done in the river. It's amazing what a little oxygen and flow can do for all the aquatic plant life and organisms, big and small.
Developing the city of Kent’s Heritage Park in the former dam pool also preserved an important connection to Ohio’s canal history.
Top Photo: 2007 – Ohio EPA scientists conducting a biological
and water quality survey of the Middle Cuyahoga following Kent’s Dam Project
