Among elements most associated with Pittsburgh — Steelers, Pirates, Penguins, a bevy of unique bridges, several universities, French fries on sandwiches — the scenically striking confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers to form the mighty Ohio might be the city’s key physical trademark.
As crucial as the three rivers are to the evolution and continued vitality to the city, however, when it comes their viability as far as fishing and human immersion, aka “swimmability,” well, it’s complicated.
Despite great strides in reducing pollution sources since its 20th century industrial heyday, Greater Pittsburgh’s commercial history, severe topography, and political and governmental complexities conspire to make maintaining recreational water quality a significant and ongoing challenge.
Dan Bain, associate professor of geology and environmental science in the Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences, recently highlighted the topic of Pittsburgh river water quality in an article he contributed to the Pittsburgh Courier, “Should you swim in Pittsburgh’s rivers?”
You can read the full article on The University Times.