Keeping the Potomac: The Politics of Water

Episode 1 of 1

In the Shenandoah River, a major tributary to the Potomac, fish kills caused by algae are common and an obvious concern for River Keeper Mark Frondorf. Although Mark works tirelessly to encourage farmers to fence their animals out of waterways, many farmers do not engage in best management practices, which will protect the river from these dangers. On the Upper Potomac river, River Keeper Brent Walls monitors the river for the Potomac Riverkeepers Network. One of his greatest concerns is a pipeline that pumps a foul smelling brown fluid into an otherwise pristine section of the river 24 hours a day. The effluent poses a danger for fish and wildlife in the river and increases the water temperature to unnatural levels. As the Lower Potomac Riverkeeper, Dean Naujoks contends with many sources of pollution. One source, the Coal Ash Disposal Ponds at Possum Point Power Plant, has drawn the attention of local residents, environmental activists, and state legislators. These groups are concerned with Dominion Power's claim that their coal ash disposal program is safe. This program was produced by graduate film students at American University's School of Communication's Center for Environmental Filmmaking.

Previously Aired

Day
Time
Channel
4/30/2017
9:30 p.m.
5/1/2017
1:30 a.m.
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