Greta Jimenez
The Black River and Moose River in New York have a history of pollution and human intervention. The Black River, a 125-mile-long blackwater river, and its tributary, the Moose River, a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking, have been impacted by pollution and industrial use. In 2005, the Black River suffered a significant pollution incident when a manure spill killed an estimated 280,000 to 375,000 fish. The Moose River, with its high gradient, has also attracted hydropower projects. Both rivers flow into Lake Ontario and are regulated by a network of dams and reservoirs, which has reduced flooding but also altered the natural flow of the rivers. With a combined storage capacity of over forty billion gallons, the regulating district manages the water flow for hydroelectricity and industrial operations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Black River Pollution | In 2005, the Black River was contaminated by a manure spill from a farm, resulting in the death of an estimated 280,000-375,000 fish. |
| Dams on Black River | There are at least 17 dams on the river, with nine below Watertown. |
| Black River Length and Direction | The Black River is a 125-mile-long river that flows in a northwest direction into Lake Ontario. |
| Moose River Description | The Moose River is a mountain waterway in Upstate New York consisting of three branches: North, Middle, and South Branch. It is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking due to its high gradient. |
| Hydropower on Moose River | There are several hydropower projects along the Moose River due to its high gradient. |
What You'll Learn
Manure spill from a farm in 2005
The Black River is a 125-mile-long (201 km) river in New York that flows from the Adirondack Mountains to Lake Ontario. In August 2005, the Black River was contaminated by a manure spill from Marks Dairy Farm, a concentrated animal feeding operation near Lowville. A retaining wall gave way, allowing about 3 million US gallons (11,000 m3) of manure to spill into the river. This resulted in the death of an estimated 280,000 to 375,000 fish.
The Black River watershed covers an area of 1916 square miles across several counties in New York. The river has two main tributaries, the Moose and Beaver Rivers, and there are at least 17 dams along its course. The Moose River joins the Black River above Lyons Falls, where the river drops 70 feet (21 m) over a cliff.
The manure spill had a significant impact on the river and the surrounding ecosystem. It is important to note that even small spills of oil or other hazardous waste can pollute soil and water and harm plants, animals, and humans. Farms in New York are subject to regulations regarding the management and disposal of hazardous waste, including used oil and other materials. These regulations are in place to help prevent spills and protect the environment.
The Marks Dairy Farm spill was a significant event that highlighted the potential consequences of improper waste management on farms. It is essential for farms to comply with regulations and take the necessary steps to prevent such incidents from occurring, as they can have devastating effects on the environment and local wildlife.
The Black River and its tributaries are important natural features in the region, providing recreational opportunities such as canoeing and kayaking, and it is crucial to ensure their protection and maintenance for future generations.
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The Black River Wild Forest
The forest is home to numerous trails, including the Black River Middle Branch Trail and Jock's Brook Trail, which provide opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and camping. There are over 90 miles of hiking trails in total, including the future North Country National Scenic Trail. The forest also offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, with several hand launches located along the Middle Branch Moose River and its outlets.
Camping is a popular activity in the Black River Wild Forest, with numerous campsites available, including designated tent sites, lean-tos, and roadside campsites. Some of the well-known campsites include Reeds Pond, Wolf Lake Landing Road, Mill Creek Road, and Haskell/West Creek Road. For campers seeking more amenities, the nearby Nicks Lake Campground offers a convenient option.
The Black River, for which the forest is named, is a 125-mile-long blackwater river that flows in a northwest direction from the Adirondack Mountains to Lake Ontario. The river has a steep gradient in its upper and lower reaches, which were historically used for hydropower and industrial development. The river has also faced pollution incidents, such as a spill from a manure lagoon in 2005, which contaminated the water and led to a significant fish kill.
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Hydroelectricity and industrial projects
The Black River in New York is a 125-mile-long (201 km) river that flows from the Adirondack Mountains to Lake Ontario. The river's watershed covers an area of 1916 square miles across Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, Herkimer, and Hamilton Counties. The Black River's two main tributaries are the Moose and Beaver Rivers.
The Black River has been an important source of power for industrial and hydropower projects. The river's steep gradient in its upper and lower reaches was originally harnessed to provide mechanical power for mills, such as the old Georgia-Pacific paper mill in Lyons Falls. The middle 40 miles of the river, however, are not suitable for power development due to their lack of gradient.
There are at least 17 dams on the Black River, with eight above Lyons Falls and nine below Watertown. The three uppermost dams form North Lake, Kayuta Lake, and the Forestport Reservoir, creating significant impoundments. The other dams operate in a run-of-the-river mode, relying on the natural flow of the river and releases from upstream reservoirs. The Black River Wild Forest, a protected area, also offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking.
The Moose River, a tributary of the Black River, is an important component of the region's water management and hydroelectricity generation. The Regulating District operates the Fulton Chain of Lakes on the Moose River via dams at Old Forge and Sixth Lake. These reservoirs provide flood control and water flow regulation, supporting hydroelectric generating projects and industrial operations in the area.
The redevelopment of the Lyons Falls Mill Development aims to double its capacity to 11.2 MW by constructing a new powerhouse with two 5.6-MW turbines. This project will increase renewable energy generation, providing enough power for almost 9,000 homes in New York State.
In summary, the Black River and its tributaries, including the Moose River, have been harnessed for hydroelectricity and industrial projects through the construction of dams and reservoirs. These projects have provided power for mills and now contribute to renewable energy generation for the region, while also offering recreational opportunities in protected areas.
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Whitewater rafting, kayaking, and canoeing
Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting on the Black River and Moose River is an exhilarating experience. The Black River Canyon, near Watertown, is renowned for its warm waters and tumultuous passageways created by boulders and ledges. This challenging section of the river offers powerful whitewater rapids that thrill seekers will relish. The best time to experience the highest flows and most intense whitewater action is during May and June.
Adirondack River Outfitters (ARO Adventures) offers guided whitewater rafting trips on the Black River, Moose River, and Hudson River. Their experienced staff ensures a smooth and safe journey, catering to different skill levels, from class II to class IV rapids. ARO is the only company that regularly runs the Moose River trips, which are only offered in April and feature the wildest rapids in the region. Their Hudson River Base provides a convenient location for family-friendly rafting fun.
Whitewater Challengers is another reputable company offering rafting trips on the Black River in Upstate New York. They provide a unique self-guided adventure where rafters can float through the stunning rock-walled Black River Canyon at their own pace. Groups of eight or more are entitled to one free rafter, making it an excellent option for larger parties.
Kayaking and Canoeing
The Black River Wild Forest is a kayaker's and canoeist's paradise, offering numerous opportunities for paddling enthusiasts. Nick's Lake Boat Launch, located within the DEC Nicks Lake Campground, provides access to the water, although it is only available during specific periods, typically around Memorial Day Weekend through Columbus Day Weekend. A fee is required to use the boat launch.
For a more rustic experience, the Nelson Lake Hand Launch on the Middle Branch Moose River offers a natural launch site directly from the riverbank. Paddlers can explore the flat water section of the river and access Nelson Lake for a tranquil journey. Another option is the Otter Lake Hand Launch, conveniently located near a dam in the southwestern bay.
Additionally, the Black River Middle Branch Trail on the North Lake Easement Tract offers a 1.9-mile paddling route along the Middle Branch of the Black River, providing a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
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Flood reduction measures
The Black River in New York is a 125-mile-long river that flows from the Adirondack Mountains to Lake Ontario. In 2005, the river was contaminated by a spill from a manure lagoon, resulting in the death of an estimated 280,000 to 375,000 fish. While I cannot find specific information about the pollution of the Moose River, the Black River's tributary, the two rivers converge, so any pollution in the Moose River would likely impact the Black River as well.
Now, here are some flood reduction measures that can be implemented to mitigate the impact of flooding:
- Early Warning Systems: As many floods occur at night, early warning systems are crucial to providing residents with the time to respond to impending floodwaters. This includes relocating vehicles, collecting pets and valuables, and implementing personal emergency plans.
- Road Improvements: Enhancing the flood resilience of roads is beneficial to flood-affected residents, enabling them to escape floodwaters and allowing emergency services to access affected areas more easily. Key routes to essential services, such as hospitals and emergency shelters, should have a high level of flood immunity.
- Land Use Planning: Strategic land use planning helps to identify and limit the construction of residential, commercial, and industrial areas in flood-prone regions. This involves conducting detailed surveys of flood-affected residences to increase the accuracy of flood modelling, so that the impact of flooding on each property can be understood.
- Structural Measures: Physical structures can be constructed or modified to reduce the impact of flooding on individual properties or entire catchments. This includes the construction of dams and reservoirs, which can help regulate water flow and reduce flooding, as seen in the network of dams and reservoirs along the Black River and its tributaries, including the Moose River.
- Building Controls: Implementing building controls can provide some protection from flooding. For instance, requiring new homes or substantial renovations to have habitable floor levels above the expected flood levels can minimize the damage caused by floodwaters.
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Frequently asked questions
In August 2005, the Black River was contaminated by a manure spill from a farm, resulting in the death of an estimated 280,000 to 375,000 fish. The Moose River, a tributary of the Black River, is a popular destination for whitewater rafters, kayakers, and canoeists due to its high gradient. While I found no specific information on pollution in the Moose River, it is likely that any pollution in the Black River could impact the Moose River as well.
The Black River has experienced pollution from a manure spill in 2005, and there may be other sources of pollution along its course or from nearby industrial activities. The Moose River, as a mountain waterway, may also face pollution from outdoor activities or runoff from nearby lands.
After the 2005 spill, there is no specific information available on further action plans or ongoing remediation efforts for the Black River. Regarding the Moose River, as a tributary, any remediation efforts would likely be coordinated with those of the Black River.
