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' ..." [See Nicole's full report here: PBA Sept. 2020 Fall Meeting presentation, page 32.]
The Town of Mashpee is currently undertaking measures to fund a new water treatment facility and a sewer collection system. For more information see:
- Popponesset Water Stewardship Alliance
- Mashpee Clean Waters
- Mashpee Enterprise, Oct. 26, 2020: APCC: Conditions Worsen For Cape Cod's Saltwater Embayments, Freshwater Ponds
- Cape Cod Times, June 23, 2020: Mashpee Voters OK 2.48 ML for wastewater facility design
- Cape Cod Times, June 12, 2020: Water Quality Issues Top Agenda at Mashpee Town Meeting
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."