Study Links Dangerous Bacteria in Hudson to Sewage

With an idyllic Hudson River backdrop at Irvington's Scenic Hudson Park today, U.S. Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D—Westchester/Rockland) blasted a Republican proposal to cut $166 million in future water-related infrastructure improvements.

Citing a recent study that reported the discovery of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the Hudson River, Lowey said the proposed cuts could lead to more sewage leaking into the water, therefore posing health risks to locals.

According to Gregory O'Mullan, a Queens College and Columbia University researcher who co-authored the article Antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the Hudson River Estuary linked to wet weather sewage contamination, upgrading infrastructure could lead to less breakage and sewage leak-out, and therefore safer waters.

Irvington Mayor Brian Smith was also on-hand during the press conference and noted the river's popularity among locals. He spoke of locals' enthusiasm for using the Hudson River for recreational activities—especially on days like today—and said the recent addition of 90 kayak racks at the village's waterfront sold out "within minutes."

While Smith told Patch, "So far, we have been fairly lucky," he said he hopes the study's results will serve as "a wake-up call for Congress."

Riverkeeper Water Quality Advocate Tracy Brown also pointed out the Hudson River's appeal to Hudson Valley tourists and referenced the multiple recent breakages in sewage lines in the county, some in nearby Tarrytown.

For now, O'Mullan noted the most important thing is to be aware of when and where residents utilize the Hudson River for activities.

"We need educated recreators," he said.

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