Our coastal waters are more than scenic vistas—they support recreation, wildlife, and local industries like shellfishing. Rising water temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and pollution all interact to alter the health of these ecosystems. Understanding how climate change affects water quality and how emerging contaminants like PFAS move through our local rivers and into Long Island Sound helps residents and policymakers make informed choices to protect public health and the environment. Elevated PFAS levels in tributaries could affect fish, shellfish, drinking water sources, and the broader estuary health for years to come.

This event is for: 

• Residents and families who care about the health of Westport’s beaches, rivers, and estuaries
• Environmental stewards and climate advocates interested in current science on water quality
• Students and educators in science, environmental studies, or public health
• Community leaders and decision-makers looking to better understand climate impacts on local natural resources

Dick Harris is a seasoned marine environment specialist and water quality expert with decades of experience monitoring and researching coastal waters in Western Long Island Sound and its tributaries. He founded the Harbor Watch water quality monitoring program, which became one of the region’s leading citizen-science water monitoring efforts, engaging volunteers and interns to collect and analyze samples across Fairfield County.