ENVIRONMENTAL ALERT

To: Media Friends

From: Ken Penrod—representing: Nations Capital BASS Federation; Maryland BASS Federation; Ken Penrod’s Life Outdoors Unlimited; Potomac River friends.

SUBJECT: Potomac River Algae

Gentlemen:

            I am more than a little concerned—and more than a little experienced with Potomac River health. I spend more than 100 days per year on the waters of the Potomac —from Brunswick to the Route 301 bridge. I have done so since 1980. I have written several books on the subject, focused on fishing and history. I have received several national awards pertaining to conservation of natural resources—and the environment. I have often been referred to as the “Professor of the Potomac .” I am not exaggerating this problem, just terribly concerned.

            Blue-green algae blooms on the tidal Potomac , from the Occoquan River , south, are as prolific as any I’ve ever seen. This is not a healthy situation—and I struggle to obtain governmental interest. The water looks like a giant lawn.

            Algae blooms on the Upper Potomac River (free flowing river from headwaters to Great Falls ) are so bad that this slimy substance “clogs” fishing lines and lures.

            I/we need some media impact because the power of the pen is the only way we can obtain scientific evaluation, NOW, not later when it “goes-away.”

            PLEASE investigate this problem, and “make-some-waves.” Pass this n to TV & radio news desks. I’ve not asked you for many favors. If this problem could get 10% of the interest as the “snakehead” gets, those responsible for water quality would have to react.

            The Chesapeake Bay is in dire-straights, and we read of “dead zones” from time to time—but the Bay is just a dumpster for the tributaries.

            One of my guides contacted the MD Department of Natural Resources to complain—and was told  “the lack of submersed vegetation is the cause.”

            Vegetation is a bonus! This is a pollution problem, and we all turn away from it.

            The “Clean Waters Act” was a President Lyndon Johnson success. He stated before congress that he was “embarrassed” by the water quality of the “Nation’s River,” the Potomac . I can state unequivocally that I am embarrassed today. The Potomac is/was an example of our dedication to a cleaner, healthy USA . Well, it used to be.

            I am available by phone: (cell) at 240-447-2206; E-mail@ kenpenrod@comcast.net.