Although the Branford River watershed appears to have escaped many of the ravages common to urban and suburban watersheds, development has fragmented many wildlife habitats and pollution continues to threaten the river's water quality. It is important to protect our river's natural systems while there is still time.

• Support the Branford River Project and contribute to its efforts.

• Keep litter under control. Join us on our Branford River Clean Up Days.

• Limit your use of pesticides and fertilizers. If you do use lawn chemicals, apply them properly and in recommended amounts based on the results of a soil test.

• If you live along the river, compost your yard waste rather than throwing it over the riverbank. Also, maintain a buffer of native vegetation instead of planting grass all the way to the river's edge.

• Become a river steward.

• Don't dump hazardous waste (e.g., motor oil, household chemicals) down household or storm drains. Instead, bring them to HazWaste Central at the South Central Regional Water Authority.

• Take responsibility for the storm drains around your home. Be sure to keep excess sand, leaves and debris away from these drains.

• Conserve water to reduce the volume of waste water which must be treated in the sewage treatment plant

• Clean up after your pets.

• Pump out your septic system regularly.

• Use pump out stations for boat refuse.

• Communicate with your local officials. Support local, state and national programs to improve water quality.