FIND IT AND FIX IT (FIFI)
The Mystic River Watershed Association (MyRWA) and Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) received a grant from the Massachusetts Environmental Trust that enabled the two organizations to work together to improve water quality impaired by stormwater runoff in the Mystic and Charles River watersheds. The project addressed improving water quality by identifying and removing pollution caused by stormwater (non-point source pollution) that threatens public and aquatic health. During the three-year project, MyRWA accomplished the following:
- Identified potential sources of non-point source pollution through visual surveys conducted by volunteers
- Tracked and monitored suspected ‘hot spots’ through water quality testing
- Supported remediation of pollution problems
- Guided water quality enforcement
- Provided public education and knowledge transfer
Completed Surveys:
- Aberjona River: surveyed fall 2007
- Horn Pond: surveyed fall 2007
- Horn Pond Brook: surveyed spring 2008
- Winter Pond: surveyed fall 2007
- Upper Mystic Lake: surveyed spring 2007
- Winter Brook: surveyed spring 2007
- Ell Pond: surveyed spring 2007
- Malden River: surveyed spring 2007
- Chelsea Creek: surveyed spring 2006
- Mill Creek: surveyed spring 2006
- Spy Pond: surveyed spring 2006
- Sickle Brook: surveyed spring 2007
- Mill Brook: surveyed spring 2006
- Munroe Brook: surveyed spring 2006
- Little River: surveyed spring 2006
- Fessenden Brook: surveyed spring 2006
- Alewife Brook: surveyed spring 2006
Reports:
- 2007 Chlorophyll a and Nutrient Study: In August and September of 2007, MyRWA collected data on nutrients and Chlorophyll a, an indicator of algae concentrations in the water, at 27 sites in the Mystic River watershed. This report contains an analysis of the data collected and recommendations for further investigations. Report Appendix
- Chelsea Creek, Mill Creek, and Island End River Recommendations for Action
Report a problem:
Have you seen illegal dumping, pipes that run during dry weather, or other nonpoint source issues in the watershed? Report it to the Mystic River Watershed Association or your municipality.
Watershed Emergency Contact Information:
- Follow directions on Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection site to Report a Spill or Environmental Crime
- To report sewage overflow, manhole issues, public health concerns, etc. see Municipal Authorities Contacts
- For long-term issues please contact us at contact@mysticriver.org
New Outreach Material:
The Mystic River Watershed Association has compiled several outreach brochures to educate the public about non-point source pollution. We welcome educators, stormwater managers, and watershed citizens to download these brochures and distribute freely to help spread the word about how residents can help reduce pollution in the Mystic watershed.
If you are a municipal official, we'd like to hear about your experience with these brochures. Please contact our office with any comments or suggestions.
- Best Management Practices for Reducing Non-point Source Pollution
- The Importance of Cleaning Up Pet Waste (poster)
- The Importance of Cleaning Up Pet Waste (postcard)
- Reducing Pollution from Auto Maintenance at Home