No Discharge Zones described Is Long Island Sound a no discharge zone?

No Discharge Zones: The following excerpt is from Connecticut DEEP’s website. Visit the page and read the full article here.

What are No Discharge Zones?

An effort to improve and preserve the quality of coastal waters in Long Island Sound and its harbors is in place. The Connecticut DEEP has taken steps to ban all sewage discharge from all vessels into coastal waters. Since its inception, the federal Clean Water Act has prohibited the discharge of untreated sewage from vessels in all of Long Island Sound.

Why have a No Discharge Zones?

Eliminating the release of all sewage from boats, both treated and untreated, will result in further reductions of human fecal waste discharge. To clarify, reductions in nutrient loading helps prevent potential human exposure to bacterial and viral pathogens in swimming areas. Therefore, shellfish beds and other environmentally sensitive aquatic habitats remain clean.

Where does the zone begin and end in Connecticut?

Connecticut has designated No Discharge Areas (NDAs) in all of Connecticut’s coastal waters from the Rhode Island state boundary. Also in the Pawcatuck River to the New York State Boundary in the Byram River. Including and extending from shore out to the New York state boundary. One cannot discharge any sewage from any vessel in these waters.

What has the EPA done?

EPA has approved the No Discharge Areas pursuant to Section 312(f)(3) of the Federal Clean Water Act as amended. Information regarding federal approval of Connecticut NDAs can be found on the EPA website.

What is the alternative?

Pump out Facilities

The DEEP CVA Facilities/Pump out Map can help you locate a nearby recreational boat pump out facility. Additionally, please visit Connecticut’s Clean Vessel Act (CVA) webpage to learn why boaters must install or upgrade a marine sanitation device. This is done to be in compliance with the existing laws governing vessel sewage discharge. You’ll also find valuable information on how to choose a system. Thirdly, the different sewage system designs and system components available. Finally, helpful tips for their installation and maintenance.

Is the Federal Government involved?

You will also find information about the Federal CVA Grant Program. This provides federally funded matching grants to public and private boating facilities. Funding is for qualifying projects that provide boat sewage disposal facilities.