Gowanus Canal

The Gowanus Canal is a man-made waterway in Brooklyn, New York, connecting the Gowanus neighborhood to Upper New York Bay. Constructed in the 1860s for industrial use, it became polluted over the years from nearby factories, making it one of the most contaminated sites in the U.S. Today, it is the focus of cleanup efforts aimed at restoring its ecosystem and reviving the surrounding community. The canal is also known for its unique history, including its role in transportation and local culture, and has seen a recent resurgence with new development and recreational activities.