Living Nature of Urban Estuary

UDEC Harlem River Ecology Center

Each year The Urban Divers Estuary Conservancy hosts the annual Great Muscoota River Paddle. Muscoota is the original name given to the Harlem strait by its earliest indigenous people. The ecocruise provides an opportunity for local residents to explore and learn about the ecological significance of the Harlem River. On this day a large striped bass was caught right off our boat, an indication of the resilience of Harlem River. The Harlem River is one of the most scenic waterways along NY Harbor and has over 30 CSOs (Combine Sewage Overflow) within its 3.5 miles where raw untreated sewage is systematically discharged after every rainfall. This condition introduces excess nutrients into the waterway. CSOs are known to introduce the highest level of pathogens (disease-causing bacteria) to our waterways. Hence, beaches are commonly closed along the river.