Reporting Potential Environmental Damage
As watershed advocates and outdoorswomen and men, we have both a greater opportunity and a greater responsibility to report incidents or conditions that could threaten to damage the environment. Often our increased environmental awareness can help us observe problems that may otherwise go unnoticed. Many incidents go unreported because they are not recognized as abnormal or because the person or agency to contact is unknown. Here are some things you may observe and agencies to contact:
Fish kills
While the vast majority of the fish kills reported turn out to be natural events, they may also be the result of pollution or a deliberate or accidental change in water conditions. They should always be reported to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife.
Discharge of pollutants into storm drains
The only substance that should go into a storm drain is rainwater. Sewage, automotive chemicals, solid waste, etc. should not enter the stormwater system which often leads directly into ponds or streams. Illicit discharges should be reported immediately to the local Department of Public Works.
Discharge of pollutants into streams
Spills or illicit discharge of pollutants directly into streams or ponds should be reported to the MassDEP Environmental Strike Force.
Asian Longhorned Beetle
The Asian Longhorned Beetle is one of several invasive insects that are destructive to native forests. For ID information and to report sightings, go to The Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project or the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
If you do report something or if you're unsure of who to call, contact us at the BRWA. We rely on you to help us keep tabs on the Watershed.
