WATERSHED ISSUES
The Mystic River Watershed has a long history of industrialization, that while allowing our communities to prosper economically has resulted in a legacy of contamination that continues to effect our waterbodies today. As we proceed to learn about these effects, we are seeing slight improvements in water quality. View the pages listed below for additional information about issues currently impacting the Mystic River Watershed.
SANITARY SEWER OVERFLOWS (SSO's)
An active SSOSanitary sewer overflows, or SSOs, are discharges of raw sewage into surrounding water sources and communities that pose as a substantial public health risk. MyRWA addresses SSOs through data management, advocacy and outreach. Click here for more information on SSO's.
COMBINED SEWER OVERFLOWS (CSO's)
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CSO occuring in the WatershedHave you ever wondered if it is safe to swim or boat in the Mystic River? Some days, especially after a heavy rain, a swimming or boating advisory may be issued by the local municipality. Click here for more information on CSO's.
WATER CHESTNUT
European Water ChestnutThe Mystic River Watershed hosts many invasive species, or non-native species that negatively impact the ecosystem such as the Water Chestnut. Click here for more information on Water Chestnuts and other invasives. Click this link for the Groundwork Somerville & Americorp Water Chestnut Removal Project details.
STORMWATER & RUN-OFF
Litter in the streetStormwater and Run-off (Non-Point Source Pollution) is a major cause of water pollution in the Mystic River and its tributaries, affecting fisheries, habitat quality, flora and fauna, and the overall beauty of the river. Click here for more information on Non-Point Source pollution.
FISH CONSUMPTION
Are the fish contaminated? Check out the Public Health Fish Advisory to find out more about the health of fish in the Mystic River. Click here for more information on the Fish Consumption Advisory page.
SUPERFUND SITES
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Toxic Waste resulting in a Superfund SiteThe Mystic River Watershed is home to three EPA sanctioned Superfund sites, or areas of toxic waste. Learn more about Superfund sites and what is being done to clean them up here. Click here for more information on Superfund Sites in the Mystic River Watershed.