July Water Quality Report: Troubling Bacteria Levels Across Sound Area

In July 2015, Save the Sound and its volunteers tested water quality at 51 sites across Westchester County, NY, and Greenwich, CT. The findings revealed that around 60% of samples exceeded EPA’s safe swimming standards—some by more than ten times. Only eight of the 51 sites passed the standard every time. The worst spot? A stretch of the Hutchinson River in Mount Vernon showed especially high bacteria levels, tied to a broken sewer line. This report highlights the health risks tied to leaking infrastructure, storm runoff, and other pollution sources, and urges local communities to take action. To get the full picture—including detailed maps, comparisons with previous years, and ideas for next steps—check out the full water quality report.