Vibrant Long Island Sound Necessary for Strong CT Economy: Malloy

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is urging the United States Army Corps of Engineers to promptly adopt a draft dredging plan and environmental impact statement for Long Island Sound, arguing that without the continued availability of the four currently operated water disposal sites in Long Island Sound, Connecticut’s maritime industry will suffer irreparable damage.

In a letter delivered to the federal agency, Malloy wrote:

“Without the continued availability of the four open water disposal sites in Long Island Sound, Connecticut’s diverse maritime industry, as well as our overall economy, will suffer irreparable damage without just cause. Dredging will become economically prohibitive, marinas will shutter, harbors will be silted-in, and future generations of Connecticut residents will lose their connection to one of our most important natural resources. This connection is vital to fostering responsible stewardship of this vital estuary among future generations.”

Studies indicate that maritime-related commerce in Connecticut provides nearly $7 billion in economic output and 40,000 jobs per year.

The above information was provided by Malloy’s office. Photo by HBarrison, via flickr creative commons