Would like for this to be expanded on over the spring:
Reid Park has had a long history of pollution. The sewer lines that ran through Reid Park and across West Boulevard would leak, as well as sometimes spill into Irwin Creek.
The many vacant lots throughout Reid Park became a popular illegal dumping ground.
Although it is better today, there is still evidence of illegal dumping and water pollution.
Would love to see it from a more scientific standpoint, as my current research is more focused on the social aspects
Sources to use:
History of Irwin Creek pollution
“A Drop at a Time, De-Pollution.” Charlotte Observer, October 31, 1955.
Hall, Curley and Laura Rankin. Interview by Tenille Todd. May 27, 2014, in Charlotte, NC. Digital object. J. Murrey Atkins Library Special Collections and University Archives, Charlotte, NC. https://findingaids.charlotte.edu/repositories/7/digital_objects/1156.
Activism against Illegal Dumping
Smith, Gail. “Reid Park Residents Set Out to Combat Decay, Neglect Problems Range from Syringes in Park to Sewers.” Charlotte Observer, September 15, 1991.
Snow, Steve. “Reid Park, Rickey Hall Bang on Door of Respect.” Charlotte Observer, June 1, 1988.
Wright, Gary L. “Absentee Landlords.” Charlotte Observer, September 10, 1995.
Wright, Gary L. “Signs of Change.” Charlotte Observer, September 10, 1995.
Evidence of dumping as of October 29, 2022: