The Gowanus Canal is a 1.8-mile-long waterway located in Brooklyn, New York. It was constructed in the mid-19th century to facilitate shipping and industrial activities. Over the years, the canal became heavily polluted due to runoff from factories and sewage, leading to its designation as a Superfund site by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Efforts to clean and restore the Gowanus Canal have been ongoing, with various projects aimed at improving water quality and revitalizing the surrounding area. The canal is now a focal point for community engagement and urban development, attracting interest from residents, artists, and businesses.