Charting the Course: Issues and Programs

Charting the Course Overview

Half a century ago, the Connecticut River was so polluted that an editorial writer mocked it as “the best landscaped sewer in the nation.” Over the past thirty years, the River has experienced a dramatic reversal of fortunes, and today it’s clean enough for every recreational use imaginable. Once avoided due to pollution, the River is now in danger of becoming a victim of its own success. On a typical summer day, you will find it packed with powerboats, sailboats, canoes, kayaks, fishermen and even swimmers as river enthusiasts explore the unique offerings of a river in its natural state. Following a September, 2001 forum on the River convened by State Representative James Spallone (D, 42nd District), a series of Roundtable meetings were held to discuss how to best balance the competing uses in the River to everyone’s advantage. Charting the Course brought together experts to address docks, ecology, scenic aspects, economic development and recreation on the River. Panelists and citizens shed light on a number of problems and uncovered potential solutions that could help preserve the region’s character. One of the most important aspects of Charting the Course was the success of establishing a working group with representation from most all interested parties.