How can we protect swimming beaches and shellfishing areas from bacterial contamination?

There are many common-sense ways to protect water quality. Here are several of them are presented here, or see our brochure of results and suggestions from Webhannet watershed results (Note: large file size, 1.6MB - PDF).

Septic System Users
Do you know when your septic system was last serviced? Generally, septic systems should be pumped out every two to five years. Proper maintenance protects the environment and helps avoid costly failures. See U. Maine Cooperative Extension fact sheet on shoreline septic systems (external link).

Pet Owners
Clean up after your pets, whether you take them for walks or they stay in your yard. Depending on local ordinances, options include: flushing waste down the toilet; burying it 5 inches deep, away from gardens and waterways; or putting it in the trash. See U. Maine Cooperative Extension fact sheet on managing your pet's waste (0.2MB - PDF).

Farmers and Gardeners
Manure used for fertilizing may contain bacteria that can degrade water quality. To reduce contamination, locate gardens away from waterways. Do not apply manure before heavy rainfalls and avoid over-fertilizing. Work manure into soil, using only composted manure. See U. Maine Cooperative Extension fact sheet on using manure (external link).

Boat Owners
Use the boat pump-out facility at Wells Harbor (or look for one near your harbor) for waste disposal.