Water quality is an increasing concern for Popponesset

Multiple factors affecting the water quality in Popponesset have resulted in problems such as pollution of our waterways and algae bloom on our beach. The PBA is supporting water testing of Popponesset beach, which has uncovered increasing concerns about the likelihood of nitrogen leaching from septic tanks and the use of lawn fertilizers. See the water testing report by Popponesset Beach member, Nicole Corbett, for the PBA Sept. 2020 Fall Meeting.
"Water testing has been conducted over the last year in three locations at Popponesset Beach. Initially, the goal of the study was to see if nutrient leaching was contributing to the excessive growth of algae in our inshore waters... Based on what we have discussed, there is a high likelihood that the high volume of nitrogen coming from septic tanks in the community and region is feeding this algae growth... The implications of this "algae problem" are becoming more obvious and concerning. The algal rot and "sewage smell" at the beach this summer made the water unpleasant to swim in and simply not swimmable in late July and early August..."
See Nicole's full report to PBA here: PBA Sept. 2020 Fall Meeting presentation, page 32
Follow Nicole Corbett on her website, Popponesset Water Stewardship Alliance: "The focus of this group will be water quality, water testing, and on marine life in this area."

The Town of Mashpee is currently undertaking measures to fund a new water treatment facility and a sewer collection system.
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