On Cape Cod, there has been data collected in past years showing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, accumulating in local waters. But what are PFAS and why are they such an urgent matter? PFAS, are synthetically made chemicals used for product application that allow oil and water repellency, temperature resistance, and friction reduction to […]
Algal Blooms
In our last post, we discussed the cause of our algal blooms and associated water quality problems here on the Cape (if you haven’t read it yet, go here!). Today we will be diving into their human and ecological impacts. In both freshwater and saltwater, the impacts are due to toxins being released into the […]
Nutrient Overload 101
Barnstable Clean Water Coalition has been working to improve local water quality. But why are such efforts necessary? For both fresh and saltwater, the main problem is excess nutrients, more specifically nitrogen and phosphorus. Their existence is not a problem. In fact, nitrogen and phosphorus are keys to a healthy aquatic ecosystem. Issues arise, however, […]
Neighbors Take Action to Save Their Ponds
We love our ponds, rivers, and coastal waters to enjoy our favorite water sports like swimming, fishing, and kayaking — especially during these challenging times. However, many ponds on Cape Cod experienced an emerald green film shining on the surface — a toxic algal bloom called cyanobacteria — which prompted town health officials to close […]
National Water Quality Month: How You Can Make A Difference
Here are a number of important ways that you can help do your part in keeping our water clean. Eliminate or reduce fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides on your lawns and gardens. Lawn chemicals are not good for the environment and flow into our waterways. Use eco-friendly products that are organic and low in nitrogen. Mow […]
Meet one of our Partners: Massachusetts Alternative Septic System Test Center
Barnstable Clean Water Coalition (BCWC) works to restore and preserve clean water throughout Barnstable and is preparing to launch a pilot project to test alternative septic systems. Many partners are involved in our very important work to improve water quality on Cape Cod including the Massachusetts Alternative Septic System Test Center (MASSTC), located in Sandwich […]
Welcome to the Living Laboratory: Come Learn with Us
Since March, everyone has found creative ways to stay connected. Students of all ages learned how to do remote learning with their teachers. Zoom and FaceTime became every day communication tools to meet with business colleagues, family and friends. Here at the Barnstable Clean Water Coalition we are also learning to adapt, and one way […]