We are now in the thick of summer. With the extra heat, comes an extra responsibility to help protect our beloved Long Island Sound. Warmer weather aggravates existing problems of water quality and ecosystem health, so here are some ideas as mentioned in the 2016 Long Island Sound Report Card that individual people and families can do to help maintain our surrounding waters.
- Reduce Water Usage
- Most people are aware that using less water preserves an extremely valuable resource, but it can also improve the overall treatment of water at plants. The less water you use also helps pipes last longer.
- Eliminate or Reduce Fertilizer Use
- Fertilizer contains a lot of nitrogen, which promotes the growth of algae blooms. Not only is algae not pretty to look at, it causes a decrease in oxygen levels.
- Keep Litter out of Waterways
- Trash is not good for the environment or wildlife. It is not aesthetically pleasing either.
- Go Native
- Local plants and forested buffers surrounding a stream, ditch or waterfront act as a natural filtration system
- Pump Out Your Septic System
- It is recommended to check your septic systems every 3-5 years. Proper maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and untreated sewage in waterways.
- Care For Your Pipes
- It is important to properly dispose of harmful chemicals, household grease, and used cooking oil. The pipes in your house help protect the water for daily use.
Cummings Beach Park is the neglected stepchild of the Stamford parks system. Cove Island gets way more attention. The City switched from old 55 gal barrels to the upright plastic bins, which are unstable in a breeze. They blow over every time it’s small craft advisory; all the City would have to do is go empty them if they listened to a weather radio. Furthermore, in my time at the beach, I have snagged so many plastic bags eminating from the picnic area, which is on the beach side of the hurricane barrier. I have asked the city to put a simple, plastic fence around the area. People dont notice their bags blowing away while they are enjoying their picnics. More has to be done. Can I somehow collaborate with Save the Sound on this matter? Perhaps you did not know California doesnt put garbage cans in parks? I mean, between the gulls plucking garbage out, and people emptying their car garbage , it is just asking for trouble. This is low hanging fruit, prevention wise!