The Gowanus Canal: A neglected and misunderstood waterway
At approximately 10 a.m. on Saturday, clean-water advocate Christopher Swain did the unthinkable. He swam the entire length of what is arguably the dirtiest body of water in America: the Gowanus Canal.
Decked out in a vibrant yellow protective diving suit complete with earplugs, waterproof gloves, flippers, goggles and a green swimming cap, Swain emerged slowly into the discolored water as hordes of news crews and disgusted bystanders peered on.
Swain, who has plunged into several dirty waterways, says the purpose of his swims is “to put threatened waterways squarely in the public eye, and to support protection, restoration and education efforts.”