Eymund Diegel is tracing the natural history and hidden environments of his Brooklyn neighborhood.

“What looks like a hellhole actually has scenic potential,” says Diegel. “So you think this could be Venice. You laugh, you say, ‘This guy is out of his mind.’ But technically there is no reason why this could not be one of the prettiest spots in New York City.”

Armed with big balloons, makeshift cameras, and years of data, Diegel is trying to inject hard science into a discussion of the canal’s future that has largely been characterized by arguments based on identity and gentrification.