Scientists are beginning to get a picture of the environmental impact of Tropical Storm Irene, which ripped through some of the East Coast's most pristine rivers, triggering hundreds of oil, chemical and sewage spills. Now, some environmental groups worry that the cleanup could cause even more harm.
Scientists are beginning to get a picture of the environmental impact of Tropical Storm Irene, which ripped through some of the East Coast's most pristine rivers, triggering hundreds of oil, chemical and sewage spills.
Now, some environmental groups worry that the cleanup could cause even more harm.
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When Irene blasted through the Adirondack Mountains late last month, brooks and streams that are usually docile this time of year jumped their banks.
The storm triggered vast landslides that reshaped some of the wildest mountain landscapes in the East, washing away ponds and shifting rivers into new channels...
In the weeks following the storm, it's also common to see bulldozers and backhoes digging in the middle of these once-pristine rivers.
They're allowed here because Gov. Andrew Cuomo temporarily suspended many of New York's environmental rules, shelving state laws protecting wetlands and scenic rivers.
That move drew praise from local leaders and residents, who said cleanup work has to be done fast, before winter weather sets in.
But some environmental activists and scientists say construction crews like one working on the bank of Styles Brook — just outside of Keene — are working too fast, not taking necessary precautions.
Article continues: http://www.npr.org/2011/09/14/140461854/post-irene-cleanup-may-damage-environment?ft=1&f=1025
Image credit: newenglandpost.com
