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News Release RI Department of Environmental Management 235 Promenade St., Providence, RI 02908 (401) 222-2771 TDD/(401) 222-4462
DEM TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING ON OCTOBER 23 TO DISCUSS WAYS TO RESTORE WATER QUALITY IN SANDS POND ON BLOCK ISLAND PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, October 23 in New Shoreham to discuss efforts to restore water quality in Sands Pond. The meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m. at the Block Island School, located on High Street. The Town of New Shoreham currently uses groundwater as its primary source of water. However, Sands Pond plays an important role as a back-up water source for the town.DEM has identified Sands Pond as being impaired by excess algae growth, high turbidity, and taste and odor. These water quality impairments led to the pond being placed on Rhode Island's List of Impaired Waters. DEM is developing a water quality restoration plan, known as a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), for Sands Pond. This plan will serve as a guide for restoring water quality so that the pond fully supports its designated use as a water supply. At the October 23rd meeting, DEM will present water quality data collected by the Department during the past summer. The data will be used to help characterize current conditions in the pond, and identify potential pollution sources. Water quality data from previous studies will also be presented at the meeting. Participants at the October 23rd meeting will be asked for their input in identifying potential pollution sources in the watershed. Additional information about the meeting and the water quality restoration program in general are available by contacting Lucinda Hannus in DEM's Office of Water Resources by phone at 222-4700 ext. 7241 or by e-mail at lhannus@dem.state.ri.us. -30- |
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