JOHN WALDMAN TALKS ABOUT THE CHALLENGES FACING NEW YORK HARBOR’S WILDLIFE.

New York Harbor has a long history that starts way back in the 1600s. It’s home to all kinds of species and wildlife, but throughout the 19th and 20th centuries the harbor was filled with trash and sewage sending the harbor on a downward trajectory. But now, it’s making a comeback and things are looking better. Today on the show we’re talking to John Waldman. He’s the author of Heartbeats in the Muck: The History, Sea Life, and Environment of New York Harbor which is now available from Fordham University Press.

An audio podcast of Waldman’s talk is streamable here.

On March 20th, 2013 from 6:00 to 8:30 PM, join NYC Parks Uncommon Ground Lecture series and the Bronx River Alliance as we celebrate the start of construction of NYC’s first fish ladder and fish migration with an evening of discourse, discussion and dance.

Scientist and author John Waldman will preview his latest book on the history and fate of diadromous fish, researcher George Jackman will share early results on a current WCS/NOAA Bronx River eel study, the Bronx River Fish Passage plans will be presented and choreographer Paloma McGregor will present a work based on her long term interest in fish and the people who study their behavior.

Reservation required with NYC Parks

Contact Email: uncommonground@parks.nyc.gov

In the spring of 2013, construction is expected to begin on the first of three fish passages on the Bronx River. The “Fish Ladder,” as it is also called, is intended to permit fish migration for alewife for the first time in 330 years, and improve migration of American eels. Both of these species are on the decline worldwide and this small project is part of larger efforts to support biodiversity in the world’s oceans.

This event is the first in a series of four to be organized by the Bronx River Alliance. Wade into the Bronx River 2013, is a series of lectures, workshops and walks to learn more about the Bronx River.