Is 'be' here absolutely needed?

[wuwei]

Hi, teachers,
Is 'Be' verbs needed in the following sentence?
The waterway, formerly a scenic attration [was] famous for its aquatic life, has been badly contaminated by industrial, agricultural and domestic wastes.

Thanks and regards!
Wuwei

[2006]

No, you cannot put "was" there.

If you use "was", you have to put 'that' or 'which' before "was". The waterway, formerly a scenic attraction that was famous for its aquatic life, has been badly contaminated by industrial, agricultural and domestic wastes.

Say, 'Is a 'to be' verb needed........?. You have to say 'Is a verb...?' or 'Are verbs...?'.

[wuwei]

Thanks, 2006