The CT Agriculture Viability Grant “Project Scope of Work” Summary:
Part I: Pollution Source Survey and Assessment of the Farm River Watershed in East Haven and Branford, CT
Water quality monitoring was conducted in both the Lower Farm River in Branford and East Haven as well at Cosey Beach in East Haven. Sampling was expanded to a total of 11 sites. Water samples were collected from the sites approximately once a week since April of 2011 through August of 2012, with sampling scheduled at low tide and after rainfall when possible. Collected samples were analyzed for both colony forming units of traditional fecal coliform indicator bacteria as well as genetic analysis of Bacteroides to distinguish between human and non-human sources of bacteria. Samples at public bathing beaches were analyzed for Enterococci indicator bacteria. Sanitary surveys have been conducted throughout the area to identify potential sources of bacteria entering the Farm River or Long Island Sound. The fecal coliform samples were analyzed for National Shellfish Sanitation Program criteria to reclassify a section of East Haven.
As a result of this analysis, we have found one area of interest which has consistently experienced elevated levels of bacteria, leading to additional sites added to the area, as well as pollution source surveys of the area including sampling of catch basins draining to the Farm River.
A pollution source study was conducted beginning in 2011. Approximately 377 homes were surveyed (80 in Branford and 297 in East Haven) with and GPS locations plotted, and records made for those properties requiring additional follow-up action. There were approximately 301 homes connected to the public sewers, three homes with holding tanks, and 48 with septic systems. There is a total of approximately 80 properties in need of follow-up surveillance or verification of connection to the public sewers. Approximately 201 catch basins were plotted using GPS and visually inspected for flowing water, odors, foam, discoloration and/or sheen with approximately two requiring follow-up investigation. An inventory was completed of all locations surveyed and actual and potential pollution sources were noted. (See attached.) Locations were marked on area maps utilizing ArcMap GIS mapping program.
A total of 207 samples were collected from the Farm River area sites over 34 collection dates. A total of 127 samples were analyzed by PCR for Bacteroides and human marker. There were 65 samples found with human specific marker. (See Table page 16.) These samples indicated that sewage is entering the tributaries and LIS where both swimming and shellfishing are occurring.
Water parameters such as temperature and salinity were measured and recorded. Sample results were analyzed for trends using tides and rainfall amount to correlate elevated results.
The PCR analyses method was significantly modified and refined. This methodology will be submitted to the EPA for evaluation as a new “approved method.”
Full Article: Farm River DOA AgrvViability Final Research Report.October 2012