Coalition for Buzzards Bay

CONTACT:

114 Front Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-999-6363
www.savebuzzardsbay.org

Mark Rasmussen, Executive Director

DESCRIPTION:

The Coalition for Buzzards Bay was founded in 1987 by a small group of concerned citizens, who realized that if they did not intervene and institute a plan to protect and clean-up the Bay and its 432 sq. mi. watershed, it would be overcome by pollution, and its life-sustaining functions irreparably destroyed.

In 1988 the Bay was designated an "estuary of national significance" by the Environmental Protection Agency, which strengthened the Coalition with funding and government support. In 1992 the Coalition joined with the Buzzard's Bay Project and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to create a citizens' water quality monitoring program. Trained volunteers have collected data now for five years from 28 embayments around the shore, to assess nitrogen-loading and other factors. Since 1994 the Coalition's New Bedford Project has informed and raised the awareness of children and residents in New Bedford and 11 other communities around the Bay.

The Coalition for Buzzards Bay, now with more than 3,300 members and an operating budget of approaching $1 million, has displayed a successful track record. It has since opened a Bay Lands Center, which addresses the issue of sprawl through its partnerships with local land trusts. Yet the Coalition faces diminishing government funds and competition for foundation grants. Therefore it needs your help to continue its noteworthy work.

(1997: NATURE: Environment: Land, Air, Water, Climate)