Scenic Hudson: The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is considering adopting regulations that would establish 43 new places to anchor for commercial vessels along the Hudson River at 10 sites located between Yonkers, Westchester County, and Kingston, Ulster County.

This proposal could open up over 2,400 acres of the river to new anchorages, in essence creating huge parking lots for barges—many of which likely would contain volatile crude oil awaiting shipment to East Coast refineries.

The container ships carrying this volatile cargo can hold up to 4 million gallons. Any accident could be deadly. Even if there is not an explosion and fire, a leak—with currently inadequate response systems—could devastate the river.  In addition to posing a significant environmental risk—what one opponent has called “a disaster waiting to happen”—the plan could jeopardize the great strides communities have made in revitalizing their riverfronts.

It also would imperil the region’s scenic splendor, as well as access to the river and the safety of those engaged in paddling, sailing and motorboating.Scenic Hudson has expressed our deep concerns about the plan and the need for public involvement and transparency in the process. The USCG has agreed to conduct public hearings in riverfront communities next spring. Read more.