Greenwich Library, Norwalk Maritime Aquarium to Host LI Sound Preservation Program

Jim Paul, Manager of Outreach Programs at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, will speak at Greenwich Library on Monday, May 11 at 7 p.m. on Challenges to the Long Island Sound Ecosystem.

Through the centuries, Long Island Sound has played an important part in Connecticut history. It’s provided a means of transportation for settlers and naval ships as well as shipping for agricultural goods and textiles. Generations of fishermen have made a living harvesting fish and shellfish from its waters and local factories and mills once depended on tidal rivers for water power. Today, many people depend on the Sound for recreation and fishing.

Heavy population and industry threatens the ecologically diverse water resource. Factories have dumped poisons into streams and rivers which feed the sound. Fertilizer, pesticides and road salt leach into the water. Scientists have identified a sizeable dead zone and invasive species that have penetrated the ecosystem.

Public education is critical to the effort to reverse the damage and Paul, an ecologist and educator, will discuss ways to protect the Long Island Sound ecosystem. Live animal exhibits and a question-and-answer period will complete the presentation.

This program is open to all at no charge and will be held in the Meeting Room.

For more information, email Local History Librarian Carl White at cwhite@greenwichlibrary.org or call 203-622-7948.

Photo: Boats at the Old Greenwich Yacht Club. Credit: Barbara Heins.