Health Risks due to Recreation Along the Wissahickon, Cobbs and Tacony Creeks

In 2001, the US EPA estimated 1.8 to 3.5 million people nationwide became sick annually due to recreational contact with waters contaminated by sewer overflows. By 2018, that number rose to 90 million. Philadelphia still faces challenges from combined sewer overflows that pollute our waterways with waste when they become overwhelmed during storms, preventing communities from feeling confident that they can recreate in these waterways. A newly published research report by Temple University and the College of Public Health examine the risks of recreational contact (including wading, swimming and fishing) in various streams and rivers within the city. 

To view a recorded presentation of the findings, click here.