Marshes to Mudflats
The Long Island Sound is home to more than 170 species of finfish, some of which spawn in the Sound, as well as numerous shellfish and bird species. Unfortunately, the conversion of tidal marshes to mudflats throughout the Sound watershed is reducing the amount of habitat available to these species.
Viewer Tip: Scientists think that the disappearance of tidal marshes around Long Island Sound may be related to an increase of nutrients entering the ecosystem, such as nitrogen. Older, leaking or failing home septic systems can contribute significant amounts of nitrogen to groundwater and surface water supplies, which eventually make their way to the Sound. Make sure your system is functioning properly by having an annual, professional check-up, and pumping-out the system regularly. If you notice a foul smell or water pooling around your septic drainfield, have it checked right away!
(Sources: US Environmental Protection Agency. June 2007. “National Estuary Program Coastal Condition Report: Northeast NEPs.” Wellowner.org: Septic Systems – What You Need to Know (online information center about groundwater and wells))
