Defend the Hudson

Protect River Ecology

Photo Courtesy Giles Ashford

The Hudson River is not your typical river. In fact, most of the Hudson is actually a tidal estuary where salt water from the ocean combines with freshwater from northern tributaries. This “brackish”, or mixing, water extends from the mouth of the Hudson to the Federal Dam in Troy, NY, approximately 153 miles. The salt front of the estuary, where the freshwater runoff meets the saline water, may range from the Tappan Zee Bridge/Yonkers in the spring to Newburgh Bay/Poughkeepsie in the late summer or during droughts. Because the Hudson River is a tidal estuary, meaning it ebbs and flows with the ocean tide, it supports a biologically rich environment; making it an important ecosystem for various species of aquatic life. For many key species, it provides critical habitats and essential spawning and breeding grounds.

• The Hudson EcosystemFishable River

  In Brief:

  Riverkeeper’s Fishable River Campaign is aimed at halting the decline of the Hudson River’s signature fish species and restoring their numbers to sustainable levels. The campaign addresses the many negative impacts on the health of our fish including: habitat loss and degradation, sewage overflows, power plant fishkills, invasive species, ocean bycatch and overfishing.
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• Waterfront Development Watch

  Riverkeeper monitors and reviews proposed development projects along the Hudson River that may have adverse impacts on critical habitats. We engage developers, government, and coalitions to practice and promote smart growth and low impact development.
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• Clean Boating

  While most boaters are conscientious stewards of the environment, the standard marine toilet installed on many vessels can harm the delicate aquatic ecosystem.
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• Public Access

  Why do we care about public access to the Hudson River? Because we believe that every citizen deserves not only a clean river, but also a way to experience and enjoy it. If people are allowed to use the river, then they will appreciate it, and they will defend it. Our goal is to expand access to the river for a variety of uses.
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