thick algae growing underwater in Bourne

Nitrogen pollution is the greatest long-term threat to the health of Buzzards Bay. More than half of the Bay’s harbors, coves, and tidal rivers suffer from the effects of nitrogen pollution. We all contribute this harmful pollution to our local waterways – and fortunately, we can all do our part to stop it.

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lobster traps covered with oil

After a major oil spill in 2003, the Coalition developed new laws that make the Bay safer from oil today than it was 10 years ago. But oil spills remain a constant threat, and the Coalition continues to advocate for the strongest possible protections.

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no fishing PCB contaminated sediments signs on the Acushnet River in New Bedford

Among all of the pollution threats to Buzzards Bay, toxic contamination has seen the greatest reductions in the past several decades. But toxic pollution is still a problem in parts of the Bay, particularly around the urban center of New Bedford. Through strong, dedicated advocacy, the Coalition is working to make toxic pollution a relic of the past.

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a closed shellfish bed sign at Chapoquoit marsh in West Falmouth

It wasn’t long ago when shellfish bed closures inspired people to take action to clean up Buzzards Bay. Today, our beaches are cleaner and more shellfishing areas are open because less bacteria pollutes our waterways. But bacterial contamination is still a threat to many places around the Bay where people swim and shellfish.

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What You Can Do

On the Water

There’s no better way to enjoy Buzzards Bay than by getting out on the water. You can do your part to keep our water clean by practicing a few simple, responsible boating tips. Try these 5 easy ways to have a Bay-friendly adventure on the water.

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Top Stories

BBC and Partners Release 10 Years of Water Quality Research on Cranberry Bogs

Over a decade in the making, a new report entitled “Cranberry Agriculture and Water Quality in Buzzards Bay'' addresses the role that cranberry bogs play in the management of nitrogen and phosphorous in our region.

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Onset Bay Center Hosts 260 Student Scientists from Wareham Public Schools

This fall saw 260 enthusiastic students disembarking from school buses and stepping onto the shores of Buzzards Bay, ready for a full day of immersive outdoor learning at the Onset Bay Center.

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390 Riders Enjoy New Scenic Route at 17th Annual Watershed Ride

After a summer full of rainy weekends, 390 riders enjoyed a crisp and clear fall day at the Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride on Sunday, October 1. 

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