FactsThe Connecticut River is the largest river in New England, with a length of 400 miles and a drainage area of over 11,000 square miles. There are two main urban centers on the river (Hartford and Holyoke-Chicopee-Springfield), and more than 2.3 million people rely on the Connecticut River watershed.
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HistoryWhen European settlers moved into the Connecticut River watershed, they began to cut down the forests and replace them with farmland. Without the root systems to hold soil in place, dirt and sediment entered the river and created problems for the aquatic organisms that lived there. Factories and dams were put up on the river during the Industrial Revolution and as a result, the Connecticut River became extremely polluted. Things only got worse after World War II and the introduction of new pesticides, chemicals, and dyes—though the trees were starting to grow back to hold in the soil. In the 50s and 60s the river was essentially a sewer and could not be used for anything other than transporting the pollutants that were dumped into it. In 1963, a conference was called to investigate the pollution problem and find a solution to clean up the water. Wastewater treatment plants were added, regulations were created and enforced, and today the river is much cleaner.
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RecreationWhile the water quality of the Connecticut River is greatly improved, it is not always safe to swim or boat in. If you’re planning to use the river recreationally, check here first. In addition, fish caught on the river can contain high levels of mercury and PCBs, so stay updated on which species pose a risk—particularly if you plan to share the fish with children or expectant mothers.
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