Four Eye-Openers About Upper New York Bay

Upper New York Bay (aka New York Harbor) is perhaps the most iconic waterway of New York City. Yet, there are things about the history and the marine life that will surprise you. Here’s a small sample of what you’ll hear in this episode:

• The Bay is SO much cleaner now than it was in the late 1800’s.
• Now may be a pivotal moment in the history of Upper New York Bay.
• Whales and oysters have returned to the Bay.
• One woman’s visit to New York Harbor inspired the creation of AdriftNYC’s theme song.

You’re Going to Love Meeting Our New York Harbor Experts

Kara Murphy Schlichting, PhD.: Kara is an Assistant Professor in the History Department at Queens College-CUNY. She’s chock full of fascinating stories about New York City history, including the history of New York Harbor.

• Kara is also an author. Check out her book: New York Recentered: Building the Metropolis from the Shore
• She’s your gal, if you’re looking for information on waterway pollution. Follow her on Twitter.

Dennis J. Suszkowski, Ph.D.: Dennis was the Science Director at the Hudson River Foundation. He was also the go-to guy to learn about the marine environment, and the marine life, in the Upper New York Bay.

• I was deeply saddened to learn that Dennis passed away just days after he and I spoke. I will be forever grateful for the time he spent talking with me, and how he enlightened me about the Upper New York Bay.

Mary Jeanne Stead: Mary Jeanne is a pianist, composer, former choral director, not to mention my amazing sister. You’ll hear how Mary Jeanne’s visit to Upper New York Bay inspired her to compose our podcast theme song.

Photo credit: Pixabay