Floods, droughts, the SS United States, bridges and the problem of road salt

Not all “stories” in Delaware Currents are coming from a place of journalistic neutrality (though most are)!

When I get concerned about an issue, I will write an editorial report — these are not like our “regular” stories but often offer a bit more of a personalized view about an issue. And they are all noted as such.

If you’re a regular reader of Delaware Currents, you’ll know we are concerned about flooding all over the watershed. With the effects of climate change, more of us will experience flooding and we need to be aware of the possibilities.

So I wrote this to help residents all over the watershed become more informed about floods and droughts and how the Delaware River Basin Commission could help you understand the balancing act we’re going to have to manage through the extreme “swings” from floods to droughts over the coming years.

If you’re concerned about warehouses, you might want to have a look at “A guide to fighting warehouses.” It has a New Jersey perspective, but useful for any of our states.

We’ve written about the Skinners Falls Bridge and the Callicoon Bridge and the Delaware Memorial Bridge. Now it’s the turn of the Washington Crossing Bridge, where needed repairs for safety concerns are coming up against local opposition — some nearby residents want to keep the bridge the way it is.

And speaking of keeping things historic: We have written several stories about the SS United States, a storied ship that has been slowly deteriorating in its berth in Philadelphia.

SS United States faces being scrapped after losing berth battle in Philadelphia

An alternative to keeping the SS United States afloat? Sink it

No deadline extension for SS United States to vacate, judge rules

Last on our reading list is a story about an issue of concern all over the watershed: road salt.

The University of Delaware has received a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to study the effects of road salt on freshwater wetlands — referred in the story as “the kidneys of the land.”
A wide array of stories, as ever, to keep you up to date on our fascinating river and watershed.
And remember, we’re the only news outlet solely devoted to this watershed and we’d really appreciate it if you’d show your appreciation with a donation!!

Have a great Labor Day weekend. Be safe!

Meg