In collaboration with the Borough of Stonington, NESS is proud to unveil The Sea Starts Here Storm Drain Art Project! This initiative, led by NESS’s 2024-2025 AmeriCorps members, is part of their National Day of Service efforts on September 11th to promote clean water and environmental awareness. Through this vibrant and eye-catching artwork, we aim to inspire the community to take action in protecting our local waters.
The art installation is designed to remind residents and visitors alike of the critical role we all play in maintaining the health of our environment, and highlight the importance of keeping our waterways clean; aligning directly with one of NESS’s four core values: stewardship. NESS’s AmeriCorps members will continue to maintain this project and have plans to expand to select locations throughout the Borough, spreading the message of clean water stewardship far and wide.
Clean water is essential for the health of our ecosystems, wildlife, and communities. Whales, as majestic symbols of our oceans, rely on clean, healthy waters to thrive. Pollution, especially from stormwater runoff, poses a significant threat to marine life, by introducing harmful substances like oil, pesticides, and plastics into their habitat. These pollutants can disrupt the food chain, endanger species, and ultimately impact the balance of marine ecosystems.
Moreover, clean water is crucial for human health. Many communities, including ours, depend on local water sources for drinking water. When our waters are polluted, it not only endangers marine life but also affects the safety of our drinking water. Projects like this aim to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stormwater pollution, so we can protect both the whales and our own communities, ensuring our waters remain clean and safe for all.
Learn More!
- Environmental Protection Agency: Clean Water Act
- Long Island Sound Study: Clean Waters and Healthy Watersheds
- Save the Sound: Healthy Waters
Let’s take action now to preserve the health of our waterways and protect these incredible creatures and our community for generations to come!
Here are just a few ways you can help keep Stonington Harbor and the Long Island Sound clean!
REDUCE POLLUTION:
Avoid putting fertilizers, pesticides, pet waste, and chemicals down the drain or in the trash. You can also use organic fertilizer, conserve water, and repair sewer lines.
BE RESPONSIBLE WHEN USING THE SOUND:
Avoid dumping unused bait or fish carcasses into the Sound. If you boat, equip your vessel with a USCG-approved Marine Sanitation Device.
REDUCE MARINE DEBRIS:
The Long Island Sound Marine Debris Action Plan aims to prevent and mitigate the impact of single-use plastic, abandoned fishing gear, and microplastics.
This is just the beginning! NESS and our AmeriCorps members are committed to expanding the Storm Drain Art Project across more locations throughout our community. These art installations will continue to highlight the importance of clean water and environmental responsibility.
In the coming months, we’ll be engaging more community members, students, and volunteers in these efforts. Stay tuned for opportunities to participate in future clean water projects, educational programs, and environmental art installations.
If you're interested in supporting this project or collaborating with us, contact us to get involved! Together, we can create a lasting impact and protect the waters that surround us!
Stay Connected!
72 Water Street, PO Box 733, Stonington, CT 06378 | 860.535.9362 | adventure@nessf.org
