The Cuyahoga River in Ohio had been so polluted that it caught fire repeatedly from 1868-1969, including a 1952 fire that resulted in nearly $1.5 million in damages. Amazingly, other rivers in the United States also caught fire during this period. Why didn't federal laws limiting pollution of rivers and streams prevent this pollution and these fires?

Explanation:

The Clear Water Act or Federal Water Pollution Act (FWPA) was passed in 1972 to prevent and limit the pollution of rivers and streams and to protect the water bodies from fire. It is known as the first  and the most influential environmental law of America. But before 1972, as such there was no effective law regarding the protection of rivers and streams  thats why Cuyahoga River got polluted and caught fire repeatedly from 1868-1969 and cause the damage of $1.5 million.

necessary and proper clause. the congress shall have power to all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution the foregoing powers, and all other powers vested by this constitution in the government of the united states, or in any department or officer thereof.