Delaware River

Camden County is investing $400 million in infrastructure projects to reduce sewage and stormwater overflows into local waterways, aiming to improve water quality and mitigate flooding. The initiative includes separating combined sewers, implementing green stormwater infrastructure, and rehabilitating aging systems, with a goal of a 90% reduction in overflows.

The City of Camden suspended EMR Metal Recycling’s junkyard license following a 2-alarm fire at its Delaware River facility, citing a history of fires and public health risks. The suspension requires the company to cease operations for 30 days, with concerns over hazardous materials and community safety highlighted in the city’s notice.

The City of Camden issued a cease operations order to EMR, a scrap metal recycling company, following a two-alarm fire at its Delaware River facility. EMR had voluntarily paused operations at the site, and local officials called for full shutdown due to repeated fires and public nuisance concerns.

Recent water emergencies in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including three incidents resulting in missing persons, have highlighted the dangers of open-water swimming. An expert from Water Ready Swim School in New Jersey emphasizes the need for ocean-safety education as the school expands its curriculum.

Philadelphia City Council rejected proposed hotel and rideshare taxes aimed at funding pothole repairs and homelessness prevention. Fifty-two schools transitioned to virtual learning due to high temperatures, and new data shows rising PFAS contamination in the Delaware River, affecting over 14 million people.

Toxic PFAS chemicals are widespread in the Delaware River and its fish, according to a Delaware River Basin Commission report. The study shows rising PFAS concentrations outpacing water volume, indicating ongoing discharges from industrial and wastewater sources. A new interactive tool maps PFAS hotspots in the basin.

Approximately 100 workers from European Metal Recycling (EMR) in Camden rallied at City Hall to protest officials' calls for the company to shut down, citing job security concerns. The company faces criticism over repeated fires at its facilities, including a recent incident that caused elevated pollution levels and prompted evacuations. Camden officials plan to revoke one of EMR's business licenses.

Camden City Council plans to revoke the business license of EMR, a scrap metal recycler, following a recent fire at its facility. The decision comes after over a dozen fires at EMR's facilities in Camden over the past five years, prompting calls from officials for the company to cease operations. EMR's CEO stated the revocation does not reflect the company's progress or community commitments.

John Fitch launched America's first steamboat for passengers and freight in 1787 on the Delaware River, with a larger version operating between Philadelphia and Burlington, New Jersey, in 1790. Despite initial success, Fitch faced patent and financial challenges, leading to his departure from the U.S. and eventual death. His legacy is celebrated through a Firstival event highlighting his contributions to steamboat innovation.