The event has become a symbol for one of the state’s biggest environmental success stories: the transformation of Narragansett Bay. Courtesy Save the Bay A swimmer crosses the finish line in Jamestown during the 2024 Save the Bay Swim. Credit:Courtesy Save the BayA bay in need of savingIn the 1970s, many parts of Narragansett Bay, especially upper Narragansett Bay, were not safe to swim in or fish in. As The Blotch , she would bemoan the pollution affecting Narragansett Bay and teach kids that it was possible to clean it up. Courtesy Save the Bay Swimmer Rachel Balaban celebrates her 35th Save the Bay Swim in 2024. Credit: Courtesy Save the BayThis year’s Save The Bay swim will take place on Saturday, Aug. 8.