Sasco Brook Watershed Management Plan Completed

In recognition of this commitment to continuing efforts to improve the health of the watershed, a Memorandum of Agreement signing ceremony will take place at Southport Beach on April 20, at 10 a.m. Various municipal, state and federal officials will be present, and several individuals and volunteer organizations will be recognized for their successful efforts.

The committee was formed over 20 years ago when the shellfish beds at the mouth of the brook were closed due to poor water quality. High bacteria and nutrient counts led to its inclusion on the State’s list of impaired watercourses.

“Over the years, the committee has successfully worked to target known sources of pollution like sewage leaks, and to educate the public to help address non-point sources of pollution such as excess use of fertilizers,” said Westport Conservation Director Alicia Mozian.

“While still a stressed watercourse, water quality test results show a steady improvement with significant strides being made in the last year,” she said.

The work done over the years has resulted in an upgrade by the State in that the brook is now classified as “fishable.” Continued work needs to be done to further improve its standing so it also qualifies as “swimmable.”

Members of the committee include representatives from the Westport and Fairfield Conservation Commissions, Westport-Weston Health District, Earthplace Harbor Watch Water Quality Monitoring Program, , CT Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Aquaculture, CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and concerned local citizens.