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Focuses on the impact of clean-water laws on Hudson River. Information from a state study suggesting several beaches are potential swimming sites; Grant programs available to communities; Goal of Governor George E. Pataki for opening Hudson River beaches for swimming; Indication that Kingsland Point Park in Sleepy Hollow only needs minor renovations to reopen for swimming.

The article reports on the plan of the Department of Interior to propose a rule that aims to protect streams from the high level of pollution caused by mountaintop removal mining, which prompted fierce opposition from the mining industry and some Republicans in the U.S.

The state's Supreme Court has ruled that a managed river channel called Mitchell Slough, part of the Bitterroot River, fits the definition of a natural free-flowing stream and so should be open to fishermen under the state's Stream Access Law, even though it flows through private land. The decision reverses two lower court rulings. Landowners along the stream had argued that the waterway was so changed by humans that it was effectively an irrigation ditch and that it should not fall under state law, which allows access only to natural streams. The opinion could open other similar waterways to public access. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Deals with the New York State's highest court ruling on rivers surrounded by private property. Information on the case of Adirondack League Club Inc.; Details on the ruling; Comments from the judges.