Location: Darien, Connecticut | Status: Active
Summary: Poorly maintained sewage collection systems can fall into a state of disrepair that can result in chronic sewage spills, impacting the health of Connecticut residents and our shared environment. Save the Sound identified overflows from Darien’s sewage collection system, including a release of approximately 600,000 gallons in October 2018, as well as a history of failing to implement recommendations for rehabilitation and maintenance. Save the Sound and the Town worked collaboratively to negotiate a consent decree as part of a Clean Water Act citizen suit legal action, under which the Town agreed to conduct a system-wide study, implement any necessary repairs identified according to an agreed upon schedule, and develop and implement a plan for routine maintenance. The Town also provide funding to the Darien Land Trust for improvements to Olson Woods Pond that augment its function as a natural forebay protecting Long Island Sound and as habitat for sea-bound migratory fish, local wildlife and other migratory species. A consent decree was signed by Judge Janet C. Hall on December 29, 2020.
Latest Step: Darien completed its Inflow and Infiltration Report.
Next Step: Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Survey to be completed by Darien by December 2022 – Save the Sound has the opportunity to review and provide comments on report and proposed Remediation Plan.
Further Reading:
Action Opportunities:
Last Updated: October 19, 2021