RFK Jr.’s Surprisingly Perilous Swim in Polluted D.C. Creek

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the current chief of Health and Human Services, took part in a swim on a recent Sunday along a D.C. creek. This seemingly innocent recreational event came as a shock due to the long-term advisory against bathing in these potentially polluted waters.

Kennedy shared via X, his social media account, that he was accompanied for this outdoor adventure by an array of family members. Some of his grandchildren were amongst the family group. The outing was chosen for Mother’s Day, celebrated at Dumbarton Oaks Park situated in Georgetown.

Further detailing their day, Kennedy revealed that he and some of his grandchildren made the choice to swim in the creek at Rock Creek while at the park. This revelation stirred somewhat of a social media ruffle, given the notorious condition of this body of water.

In response to Kennedy’s social media post, a ‘community note’ was posted as an appended comment or warning. It was a clear indication to all readers that Rock Creek, the location of their family swim, is both treacherous and unauthorized by the National Park Service for such activity.

According to the National Park Service, the creek is home to alarming levels of bacteria that make it dangerous for human contact. Swimming and wading in Rock Creek is not just discouraged but, in fact, banned.

Moreover, D.C. Water has previously issued alerts pointing out the frequent overflow of the combined sewage system. During heavy rainfall events, excess waste often ends up being discharged into nearby Rock Creek. Multiple water bodies across the District, including this creek, face a similar situation due to sewage overflows.

Swimming activities have been deemed illegal in majority of the D.C. waterways for several years. This long-lasting ban has been due to the persistently inadequate water quality, in large part because of the run-off from highly polluted sewage systems.

In recent years, attempts to organize swimming events in the Anacostia River have been launched. However, these events have frequently faced cancelation. The primary reason for their suspension desists in recurring issues with sewage pollution.