MAKE A DIFFERENCE - do your part!
Volunteers at a River Clean-UpThe Mystic River Watershed Association (MyRWA) works to protect the water and related natural resources of the 22 Mystic River Watershed communities by means of clean water advocacy, education & outreach programs, and water quality monitoring. MyRWA works at a watershed wide level because our communities are connected by the water that flows between them. Read more about MyRWA's work here.
“A river is more than an amenity, it is a treasure.”
-- Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, 1841.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP THE MYSTIC RIVER WATERSHED?
- Do not litter. Litter ends up in the sewers or in the rivers and streams.
- Minimize the use of fertilizers and pesticides, especially where run-off may occur, or practice organic lawn care.
- Conserve water. Excess water in the sewage system can lead to sewage overflows into our waterways.
- Always pick up pet waste, especially along river banks. Pet waste contains harmful bacteria that contaminates the rivers.
- Use rain barrels to capture rainfall to use on your lawn or garden.
New England Rain Barrel - Never dump anything down storm drains – it drains directly to local waterways.
- Use non-toxic products whenever possible. Carefully store and dispose of household cleaners, chemicals, and oils.
- Take your car to the carwash instead of washing it in the driveway, where the suds will likely drain into a storm drain.
- Maintain clean, well swept driveways, side walks and roads to avoid debris entering storm drains.
- Share your knowledge with others!
LOOKING FOR MORE WAYS TO HELP OUT?
- Become a MEMBER of the Mystic River Watershed Association - your membership dues will directly support our monitoring, advocacy, and education programs.
Volunteers Remove Water Chestnuts, 2010 - If developing an area, consider implementing Low Impact Development practices.
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Provide much needed support to MyRWA by VOLUNTEERING. The many ways to get involved include collecting water samples, serving on an advisory committee, or helping with office tasks.
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Plan to participate in an upcoming activity or event.
- Read "Four Steps to Reducing Non-Point Source Pollution" a 2 page brochure focusing on stormwater pollution.
- Practice the 10 tips for a great organic lawn (courtesy Organic Soil Solutions)
- Donate to support MyRWA's work.
- Stay informed of volunteer opportunities, watershed happenings and issues by subscribing to MyRWA's monthly E-Newsletter.
- Perform Storm Drain Stenciling. Mark storm drains by spraypainting this stencil "Don't dump drains to Mystic." This is a great activity for groups and youth!
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Do you have other ideas to share? Email MyRWA here.
View a list of Educational Resources here (great for teachers).