Environment/2000 Connecticut's environmental plan

[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]

ENVIRONMENT/2000 CONNECTICUT'S ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN
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SUBMITTED BY

CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

PURSUANT TO PUBLic ACT NUMBER 87-142

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C8 SEPTEMBER 1, 1987
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@TATE OF CONNECTICUT
EXECUTIVE CHAMBERS
HARTFORD. CONNECTICUT

WILLIAm A. O'NEILL CLMSIC
commEcnaff
GOVERNOR

September 3, 1987

Commissioner, Leslie Carothers
Department of Environmental Protection
State Office Building
Hartford, Connecticut 06106

Dear Leslie:

in accordance with Public Act 87-142, 1 have reviewed the
document entitled Environment/2000: Connecticut's Environmental
Plan and have determined that it meets the intent of providing
this state with a statewide environmental plan for themanagement
and protection of the quality its environment and natural resources
in furtherance of legislative policy.

Environment/2000 provides the citizens of Connecticut a
means to maintain and enhance the air, land, and water resources
that form the environment for all who inhabit this densely
populated and richly endowed state. We have become aware that
our natural and cultural heritage and our future are all
interrelated and require the utmost of sensible and balanced
management. We need to acknowledge that we are only temporary
residents of this land and need to take responsibility as
"stewards" of the environment. Each of us must work hard to
preserve, protect and pass on this heritage to present and
future generations. Environment/2000 will serve as a guide
for the people of this state in achieving a "quality of life" as
set out in this document.

In approving this Plan, I call together all branches and
levels of government, business and industry, conservation
organizations, educators, and the individual citizen to actively
participate as trustees of the environment by working towards
the achievement of Connecticut's en;@ironmental future as
pictured in Environment/2000: Connecticut's Environmental Plan.

Sincerely,

WILLIAM A. O'NEILL
Governor

STATE OF CONNECTICUT
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

September 1, 1987

His Excellency
The Governor of Connecticut
State Capitol
210 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, Connecticut 06106

Dear Governor ONeill,

I am pleased to submit to you Environment/2000- Connecticut's Environmental Plan for
your review and approval. As you are aware, the 1987 Legislative Session enacted into law Public Act
87-142 which calls for the submission of a state-wide environmental plan to you by September 1, 1987.
This document satisfies the requirements of this law by presenting a long range plan which identifies
the State's priority environmental, issues and sets the agenda for Connecticut's environmental programs.

Environment/2000 will provide the Department of Environmental Protection with a clear
definition of its mission and goals, will set a unified and comprehensive agency direction, and will guide
policy and program development, legislative and regulatory proposals, and budget requests. It is this
Departmenfs responsibility to lead both the public and private sector in the implementation of this Plan.
The Department must establish priorities within each of the Plan's forty-two issues, provide needed
training and education to local government officials and the public, and provide for better account-
ability. A key factor in the success of this Plan will be the ability to monitor the implementation and
achievements over time. This Department will work closely with and assist the Connecticut Council on
Environmental Quality in preparing their annual report which will detaii the progress being made.

The Department began preparing this environmental plan in 1985 and one year later released a
draft document for public review and comment. The Department conducted an intensive public par-
ticipatory process: a questionnaire was developed and circulated throughout the state asking citizens to
evaluate all topics within Environment/2000-, regional workshops were held throughout the state in
June 1986; a Governor's Conference on EnvironTnent/2000 was held in October 1986; and a public
advisory committee was formed and assisted the Department in the review, amendments and revisions
to the Plan. This process has resulted in a document that reflects the aspirations of the citizens of the
State.

This Department, other State Agencies, and the public and private sectors have worked diligently
in developing a comprehensive and dynamic state-wide environmental plan for the protection of the
quality of the State's environment and the management of its natural resources. Although I arrived too
late to be a participant in the development of the plan, I endorse it without reservation and look
forward to working towards its accomplishment. With your adoption of Environment/2000.' Con-
necticut's Environmental Plan, the commitment and guidance will be put in place to accomplish this
moist challenging job.

Sincerely yours,

Leslie Carothers
Commissioner

Phone:
165 Capitol Avenue Hartford. Connecticut 06106

An Equal Opportunity Employer

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

Acknowledgements i

Statements of the Environment/2000 Advisory Committee Co-Chairs ii

Introduction: Ile Need, The Process, and The Issues 1

Environment/2000- The Issues 3

Continuum of Stewardship 46

Public Act Number 87-142 48

List of Endorsements 49

Environment/2000-. Advisory Committee Members 52

Glossary 54

Abbreviated Listing of Environmental Plans and Policies 57

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Dear Reader:

It is with great pleasure that we are able to acknowledge the many individuals and organizations
who assisted in producing Environment/2000: Connecticut's Environmental Plan. It has been only
through their contribution and dedication that it has become a reality and is now adopted as the State's
environmental plan.

Special thanks are extended to the Environnient/2000 Advisory Committee and the four
Chairpersons-James DeWitt, Philip Leavenworth, William Renfro, and Denise Schlener-who worked
diligently to revise, debate and Teach consensus. Without their skillful leadership and energy, this Plan
would not have been transformed into a public document. Further, the following individuals should be
recognized and thanked for their many hours of hard work during many evenings and weekends. It is
this type of commitment that has fostered a broad based ownership essential to the successful im-
plementation of this Plan.

Diane K. Blackman Joanne Foster Nancy Kriz Denise Schlener
Russell L. Brenneman Susan Giordano Philip B. Leavenworth Gregory A. Sharp
Gerry Capriulo Jean Good Chris T. Maier Louis Shuman
Marshall T. Case Meg Goodwin Marion McLaughlin John Sima, Jr.
John W. Connors Lucas Held Susan Merrow Barbara Surwillo
Joey Corcoran John Hibbard Norma OLeary Mark R. Sussman
Les Corey Chris Hofmann Virginia P 'aige Shirley Talcott
Jean P. Curtis Jay Kaplan John S. Rankin Sally L. Taylor
James DeWitt J. Patrick Kelly William C. Renfro William Urban
William A. Ellis Robert J. Klancko Donna Richardson Howard Weiss
Susan Faulkner Robert Kloepfer John Reiger Ronald Whitely
Thomas H. Fitzpatrick Edward Kluck Faith St. Claire Suzi Wilkins

Recognition should also be extended to the many citizens of the State of Connecticut who gave of
their time to review and comment on the Plan, attended public meetings, responded to the questionnaire,
and provided much valuable public input.

We would also like to extend our appreciation to the Department staff who assisted us in
identifying and developing the Plan and who participated in the 1986 Governor's Conference. In
addition, our list of acknowledgements; would not be complete without mentioning Robert Paier, the
Editor of the Department of Environmental Protection's Publication The Citizens' Bulletin. The draft
Environment/2000 was first published in the May 1986 edition under his able editorial skills and he
has kept readers up to date through articles in subsequent issues.

We look forward to working with these dedicated individuals as the Environnient/2000
process continues and invite others to join us in its success.

The Environnient/2000 Development Committee, CT Department of Environmental Protection:
Robert Moore, Chairman-Assistant Deputy Commissioner
Carmine DiBattista, Director-Local Assistance and Program Coordination Unit
Hugo T'homas, Director-Natural Resources Center
James Murphy, Principal Environmental Analyst-Water -Compliance Unit
Glen Gross, Principal Environmental Analyst-Planning and Coordination Unit
Tessa Gutowski, Senior Environmental Analyst-Water Compliance Unit

STATEMENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENT/2000: ADVISORY COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS

The Environment/2000 Plan represents a vision of Connecticut's future shaped by the people
who live in the state. Led by the Department of Environmental Protection, several hundred people
representing industry, environmental organizations, academia, and communities throughout the state,
have worked over the last year to identify long-term environmental goals and the strategies needed to
achieve them. After a state-wide survey and conference were held, a Citizens Advisory Committee
convened in October, 1986 to review and finalize the plan presented herein. Working regularly through-
out the winter and early spring, the Committee analyzed, debated, and negotiated to revise and sup-
plement the goals, objectives, and strategies, developed by the Department in the draft plan. What
emerged is a document which is as impressive for its content as the process undertaken to develop it. But
as hard as the,advisory committee worked, members know that the real challenge of implementing the
Plan lies ahead. This is a job that the Department cannot and should not carry out alone. The key to the
Plan's success lies within the process used to develop it - continue to involve all those people who have
a stake in a clean and healthy Connecticut environment.
Denise Schlener, Connecticut River Watershed Association

As a Connecticut citizen, each of us has a responsibility for stewardship of our state's beautiful
but limited and fragile environment. We recycle materials and conserve energy, but how do we, as
individuals and groups, effectively contribute to environmental planning and programming on a regular
basis? How do we also come to understand our environmental problems and identify effective co-
ordinated interventions and enforcement measures? We have needed a formally recognized, organic
mechanism for environmental improvement, not. only to allow comprehensive and integrated sectoral
planning and implementation but also to create a process for participation and for understanding of
common problems and collective resources; this is our. Environment/2000. Now we have the op-
portunity and challenge to pull together to achieve our undisputed common goal - the maintenance and
improvement of Connecticut's environment.
Philip B. Leavenworth, Environmentalist

This document, Environment/2000, is a remarkable plan that identifies a panoply of en-
vironmental concern. However, we should be reminded that Environment/2000 is a process as much
as it is a plan. It is a process that joins potentially incongruous interest (ie. environmentalists and
industrialists) together in the spirit of cooperation and mutual concern. From its inception, Envi-
ronment/2000 has intended to be a dynamic, continuous process, constantly being reviewed and
reshaped always representing the concerns of a cross section of Connecticut citizenry. Connecticut
industry pledges to continue its efforts towards a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment as we move
towards the year 2000.
James DeWitt, Connecticut Association of Metal Finishers

Environment/2000 is a plan to commit the citizens and the institutions of the State of Con-
necticut to the maintenance and enhancement of our air, water, and land resources. It presents goals,
objectives, and strategies for preserving natural resources and improving environmental values in 42
specific areas. It provides state agencies, industries, municipalities, environmental groups, and individual
citizens a framework for cooperating in the task of leaving future generations a better State than the
one this generation inherited. I hope we take this timely opportunity to meet this obligation.
William C. Renfro, Northeast Utilities

INTRODUCTION: THE NEED, THE PROCESS, AND THE ISSUES

THE NEED
Environment/2000: Connecticut's Environmental Plan establishes the environmental agen-
da for State and local governments, business and industry, and the public. This long-range Plan
identifies the State's environmental goals necessary for the achievement of a quality environment for
the state, defines measurable near-term objectives and implementation management strategies. Con-
necticut's citizens have made it clear that pollution is unacceptable, that unique natural resource
conditions must be protected, that state-owned lands should be managed for the benefit of the public,
and that a quality environment must be passed on to future generations. This commitment has been
repeatedly stated as evidenced by legislative mandate, administrative programs, and judicial decisions.
Environment/2000 is the State Environmental Plan which provides Connecticut's citizens with a
mechanism to rededicate and define this commitment.

Environment/2000 presents a clear definition of the Department of Environmental Protection's
mission and goals and provides a challenge and a direction to all other organizations that have an impact
on Connecticut's environment. It will set a unified and comprehensive direction for the Department and
its future managers, will assist in identifying legislative and budgetary priorities, and will serve as an
environmental rallying point for Connecticut's citizens.

THE. PROCESS
In May 1986, the Department of Environmental Protection's publication Citizens' Bulletin
served as the vehicle by which the Department presented Environment/2000: Connecticut's En-
vironmental Goals and Management Strategies.'This version of Environment/2000, which was
sparked by the Commission on Connecticut's Future, was the result of two years of careful study and
research from within the Department of Environmental Protection. The document was separated into
the four categories of preservation, pollution control, resource management, and services and contained
38 goals and objectives and over 200 management strategies.

The process of bringing the Plan before the people and encouraging their participation began with
copies of the Plan being sent throughout the State, to municipal governments, town boards and com-
missions, business leaders, industry, educators, and environmental groups. Regional workshops were held
throughout the State in June 1986. At these workshops, Department of Environmental Protection
officials outlined the structure of the plan and explained how the public could participate. A ques-
tionnaire was circulated throughout the State asking citizens to evaluate all topics within the En-
vironment/2000 document in terms of importance and urgency and to make any suggestions, changes,
or additions they saw fit.

In October 1986, the Governor sponsored a Conference on Environment/2000 where attendees
representing a wide range of interests in Connecticut made it very clear that the citizens of the State had
indeed picked up the challenge to become involved in charting the State's environmental agenda. A
public advisory committee was formed in October 1986 to assist the Department in the review,
amendments and revisions to the Plan. Numerous subcommittee meetings were held during the fol-
lowing three months chaired by the members of the advisory committee. It was at these meetings that
the Environment/2000 document was reconsidered, discussed, analyzed, and held up to most intense
scrutiny. The process had initiated the Environment/2000 transformation from a Department doc-
ument to a true expression of the wishes and aspirations of the citizens of the State of Connecticut.
Finally, in June 1987, the Connecticut General Assembly amended Connecticut General Statute 22a-8
through Public Act Number 87-142, enabling a process for formally identifying Environment/2000 as
the State's Environmental Plan.

THE ISSUES
Environment/2000 contains forty-two issues which were selected through consensus and iden-
tified as the most pressing environmental management problems currently being faced by the State. The
participatory process, as described above, created a document that truly reflects a broad consensus of
government, business and industry, and public interest organizations. Environment/2000 identifies
what needs to be done and deals with direct environmental issues. The writers of this Plan made no
attempt to bring into discussion the many disciplines that interrelate with the environment, such as
energy, health, housing, industrial development, and the many other socio-economic fields. Nor does the
Plan address such items as funding, legislation, agency responsibility, or time frames. The writers
believed the Plan must be free of these constraints and determined that these critical factors should be
addressed in the implementation of the management strategies.

Thematic throughout the Plan are the three over-riding issues of land-use, education, and en-
forcement. Land-use remains the far-reaching issue confronting all aspects of resource management and
is the fulcrum on which the precious beauty and environmental health of the State will balance. Better
environmental education and information is needed as environmental protection and natural resource
management policies and programs become more complex. Throughout the Environment/2000 public
participatory process, stricter enforcement of pollution control and resource management statutes and
regulations was demanded.

ENVIRONMENT/2000: THE ISSUES

ISSUE PAGE

ACE) PRECIPITATION 4
AGRICULTURE 5
AIR QUALITY 6
BOATING 7
COASTAL RESOURCES 8
COMBINED SEWER OVERFLOWS 9
CULTURAL HERITAGE 10
DAM SAFETY 11
DRINKING WATER SUPPLY 12
ENFORCEMENT 13
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION 14
FISHERIES AND FISHERIES HABITATS 15
FLOOD CONTROL 16
FORESTS 17
HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS is
HAZARDOUS WASTE 19
HIGH-LEVEL RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL 20
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION 21.
INLAND WETLANDS 22
LAKES AND PONDS 23
LAND USE 24
LONG ISLAND SOUND 25
LOW-LEVEL RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL 26
MINERAL AND SOIL RESOURCES 27
NATURAL HERITAGE. 28
NATURAL RESOURCES DATA BASE 29
NOISE 30
NON-POINT SOURCE WATER POLLUTION 31
OIL, PETROLEUM, AND CHEMICALS 32
PARKS 33
PESTICIDES 34
RECREATION 35
RIVERS 36
SHELLFISH 37
SOLID WASTE 38
STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT COORDINATION 39
SURFACE AND GROUND WATER QUALITY 40
THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES 41
TIDAL WETLANDS 42
TOXIC WATER POLLUTANTS 43
44
WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
WILDLIFE AND WILDLIFE HABITATS 45

ACED PRECIPITATION

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from adverse effects of acid precipitation.

OBJECTIVF_- Reduce human-induced acid precipitation.

STATUS & TRENDS: Precipitation in Connecticut and the northeast is more acidic than can be
attributed to normal rainfall conditions. The primary sources of the acidification appear to be from the
south and west. Power plants, industries, and automobiles are emitting sulfur dioxide, nitrous oxides,
and hydrocarbons in amounts far greater than those permitted in Connecticut. Unless sulfur dioxide
reduction strategies are adopted, acid precipitation will continue. Effects of acid precipitation have not
been well documented in Connecticut. Effects documented elsewhere, however, have been shown to
include the following: increasing acidification of lakes and ponds; increased respiratory health problems;
increased deterioration of buildings and metal structures; and the degradation of forests, croplands, and
natural habitats. There is currently a lack of detailed studies on the sources, causes, transport, and
impacts of acid precipitation, as well as a lack of information on the contribution of sources of acid
producing compounds other than sulfur dioxide.

STRATEGEES:

1) Continue to advocate national and regional control and enforcement strategies for the in-
cremental reduction of sulfur and nitrogen oxide induced acid precipitationi

2) Encourage the development and use of regional transport models and monitoring which have a
sufficient accuracy to predict movement of air pollutants so that effects of regulatory changes
can be determined.

3) Continue to study and monitor the adverse impacts of acid precipitation on Connecticut lakes
and forest growth in selected watersheds; expand present pH monitoring programs to include
rivers and streams located in sensitive areas.

4) Conduct epidemiological studies necessary to determine the effects of size and acidity of re-
spirable particles.

5). Expand monitoring networks so that a system is in place on the periphery of the state.

AGRICULTURE

GOAL: Conserve Connecticut's farmlan( a viable agriculture.

OBJECTIVE: Develop and maintain increased agricultural production opportunities consistent with
sound environmental management.

STATUS & TRENDS: Although Connecticut is a highly industrialized state, its citizens have
acknowledged that a viable agriculture is needed in the state not only to ensure a basic level of
homegrown food production, but also to provide a significant contribution to the landscape and the total
quality of life. However, in recent decades there has been a steady decline in Connecticut agriculture.
Prime farmlands have been urbanized, small family farm operations have been lost to changing
economic conditions, and the agricultural community has been engulfed in many of the pollution
control issues that other Connecticut industries have faced. Modest attempts have been made at ag-
ricultural land preservation through development rights purchases and tax incentives, but more im-
portant is the recognition that Connecticut agriculture is in transition and in order to survive, a full
commitment must be made involving new technologies, markets, incentives, assistance, and public
education.

STRATEGIES:

1) Provide additional incentives to preserve and conserve farmland.

2) Increase the methods, techniques and incentives to preserve important farmland through such
efforts as expanding the Purchase of Development Rights Program and enhancing tax base
stability efforts.

3) Coordinate state policies and programs that deal with and have an impact on the agricultural
community.

4) Develop and improve currently required Best Management Practices for control of off-site
environmental impacts.

5) Encourage new technologies for expanded agricultural products and markets.

6) Provide increased research and improved technical assistance to the agricultural community.

7) Provide assistance to communities in land use planning consistent with agricultural pres-
ervation goals.

8) Disseminate information to the public regarding the value of agriculture and its continuation
within Connecticut.

9) Discourage through rules and regulations and other disincentives the non-agricultural use of
prime agricultural soil.

-A-I]R- QUAI=

GOAL. Protect public health and the environment from the adverse effects of air pollutants.

OBJECTIVE: Attain and maintain air quality standards.

STATUS & TRENDS: Although many public health standards are being met for air pollutants
now under regulation, some pollutants that are generated by other states and transported into Con-
necticut are major contributors to the statewide ozone non-attainment problem. Further, a large number
of localized areas do not meet public health standards for carbon monoxide. New development which is
carried out on a first-come, first-served basis may jeopardize areas where ambient quality standards are
being met. In addition, there are areas in the state that do not provide sufficient air quality margins for
growth.

STRATEGIES:

1) Develop additional controls and measures that attain and maintain air quality standards and
provide for growth.

2) Continue to issue permits which require the best pollution control methods as they become
available.

3) Increase the scope and use of the current air quality monitoring network.

4) Develop incentive programs for air pollution sources to reduce emissions.

5) Promote the development and implementation of national, regional and intrastate programs to
reduce ozone concentrations.

6) Develop programs to reduce localized carbon monoxide concentrations.

7) Maintain and improve the vehicle inspection/maintenance program.

8) Strengthen and expand the ability to remedy objectionable odors.

BOATING

G0A1_ Provide for safe commercial and recreational boating.

OBJECTIVE: Promote knowledgeable and environmentally responsible commercial and recre-
ational boat use.

STATUS & TRENDS: There is an insufficient number of boat launches, moorings, and access points
to meet increasing public demand. Therefore, boating opportunities will be more restricted because of
decreased accessibility and availability of moorings. While harbor uses are increasing, federal subsidies
for maintenance of navigational facilities, including -channels, aids to navigation, and search and rescue
crews are being severely reduced or eliminated. Navigation aids are inadequate to meet safety re-
quirements and the presence of,derelict structures poses a potential danger to boaters. In addition, the
control of marine sanitation device discharges is inadequate and there is a general lack of available
pump-out facilities for use by boaters.

STRATEGEES:

1) Require a program of training, ex g, and licensing of operators of vessels including basic
navigation and boating safety.

2) Tie boater registration fees to boating safety and environmental educational programs and to
maintenance of navigational aids.

3) Develop a comprehensive pr ogram. of regulating motor sizes, numbers and types of vessels,
speeds and wastes, no-wake areas, and noise pollution consistent with environmental quality
maintenance and with the pursuance of other recreational water-based activities including
swimming, fishing, sailing and canoeing.

4) Develop a regulatory program for marine sanitation including construction of pump-out
stations.

5) Assess all navigable waters as to environmental impacts of boating activities.

6) Inventory derelict structures and vessels and analyze existing 1 aws for provisions for removal
and control, including the imposition of fines for derelict structures.
7) Maintain and improve the. existing programs of dredging and navigational aids, enhancing
where necessary.

8) Initiate a program of monitoring marina fueling facilities, with fines to accompany neg-
ligence and known spills.

9) Assess the needs for additional moorings in harbors and examine the possibilities of mu-
nicipally-owned and maintained moorings for which the municipality may assess appropriate
fees and carefully control marina expansion employing strict environmental standards.

10) Develop' and improve boat launch access to public water bodies.

COASTA.L RESOURCES

GOAL: Conserve and enhance sensitive coastal resources.

OBJECTIVE: Protect the marine ecological system, minimize non-water dependent uses, and
increase public access to the shoreline.

STATUS & TRENDS: Increasing population density and development in the coastal area have
caused the loss of marine ecological systems and have altered coastline landforms. Further, the Long
Island Sound, as -well as many estuarine coves and embayments, are degraded as a result of pollution,
siltation, eutrophication, and restricted tidal flow. These coastal resource degradation problems, how-
ever, are neither addressed on a systematic basis nor Coordinated at various levels of government. Ile
waterfront of Connecticut's major urban ports is underutilized and many existing urban waterfront
uses are not directly dependent on proximity to coastal waters. Most coastal municipalities have adopted
plans for the use of their shoreline and protection of sensitive marine resources, but limited public access
and the existence of non-water-dependent land uses continue to create problems.

STRATEGIIES:

1) Maintain and enhance existing municipal and state coastal management programs.

2) Complete municipal coastal programs for long-range planning and protection of the coast.

3) Increase assistance- to local planning and zoning commissions.

4) Ensure that suitable opportunities for public access to coastal resources are available to all
citizens of the state.

5) Develop additional mechanisms to increase protection of existing water-dependent uses of the
coast and discourage non-water dependent uses.

6) Implement and refine a long-term, state-wide program to address degraded estuarine coves and
embayments.

7) Provide state assistance to municipalities developing Harbor Management Plans.

8) Expand jurisdiction of the state structures program to include beaches, dunes, and wave impact
zones.

9) Develop a program which addresses the imbalance between the existing supply and the public
demand for boat launches, moorings, and access.

COMBINM SEVITM OVERFWWS

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from the impacts of combined sewer
overflows.

OBJECTIVE: Eliminate combined sewer overflows.

STATUS & TRENDS: Periodic raw sewage overflows have occurred during heavy rainfalls in
some Connecticut municipalities which have combined sanitary and storm water sewers. This has
restricted full recreational uses and has presented a public health hazard. While Connecticut's Clean
Water Fund provides a long term financing mechanism to correct combined sewer overflow problems, it
will take several more years before projects to eliminate these overflows will be able to receive
financing.

STRATEGIES:

1) Complete engineering and environmental assessments for all municipal combined sewer over-
flow systems for the purpose of identifying the specific correction strategies, construction
priorities, and construction phases.

2) Eliminate minor system overflows within the near future.

3) Continue to finance and implement the state's Clean Water Fund and Grants to allow timely
corrections of the state's sewerage infrastructure problems.

4) Develop an interstate compact concerning the correction of combined sewer overflows into
waters entering Connecticut.

CULTURAL HERITAGE

GOAL: Preserve Connecticut's cultural heritage.

OBJECTIVE: Adopt cultural heritage preservation as an element in state and local planning and
development processes.

STATUS & TRENDS: In the absence of a more comprehensive state cultural heritage preservation
program, development pressures will continue to threaten and destroy archaeological and historic
evidence of the state's exploration and settlement by both Native Americans and European colonists.
Examples of Connecticut's historic farming, commerce, and manufacturing facilities are unique and are
disappearing as a result of neglect, vandalism, conversion, and removal.

STRATEGIES:

1) Implement the 1982 Governor's Task Force recommendations for the preservation of Con-
necticut's heritage, including the enactment of comprehensive cultural heritage protection leg-
islation.

2) Develop a historic industrial/manufacturing, archaeological, and architectural history trail sys-
tem within the state's park system..

3) Encourage private restoration and program development reflecting the state's cultural heritage.

4) Increase participation of advocational and professional societies in implementation of a cultural
heritage management program.

5) Promote and encourage the preservation of Connecticufs agricultural heritage.

DAM SAFETY

GOAL: Protect life and property from the hazards of dam failure.

OBJECTIVE: Attain adopted safety standards for all dams.

STATUS & TRENDS: There are over 4,000 public and privately-owned dams which require
continued maintenance, and many of them do not meet required safety standards. Many private dam
owners are unwilling or financially unable to upgrade and maintain their dams to required standards
and are attempting to place them in state ownership. As a result, the potential for dam failure caused by
improper maintenance or inadequate spillway capacity will continue.

STRATEGIES:

1) Enhance the dam safety inspection and maintenance program.

2) Continue a program for the ongoing maintenance of state-owned dams to assure their safety and
long-term performance.

3) Continue state assistance programs for repair of privately-owned dams.

4) Develop criteria for the acquisition of dams in the public interest.

DRRqKING WATER SUPPLY

GOAI_ Provide adequate quantities of high quality drinking water.

OBJECTIVE: Conserve and protect existing and potential sources of drinking water supply, and
enhance its proper delivery and use.

STATUS & TRENDS: The natural distribution of potable water supply often does not match
demand areas, and the ability to deliver water during drought or other water emergencies is not well
established. Development of additional surface supplies for drinking water will increasingly conflict
with other competing land uses, while the inability to develop these new surface water reservoirs will
require an increased dependence on ground water sources. In some parts of the state, however, con-
tamination of ground water supplies exists which can pose health risks, economic hardships, and may
force the use of waste-receiving surface waters for drinking water supply. On the state's public water
supply systems side, there is an overabundance of small water companies, many of which have
inadequate capacities and antiquated water supply treatment, storage, and distribution systems. In
addition, some water supply distribution systems are not adequately interconnected or consistently
managed from one water company to another. The newly mandated Connecticut water supply planning
process, established by state statute, will address many of these issues.

STRATEGIES:

1) Improve the management of potable water supplies through the implementation of the Con-
necticut water supply planning process.

2) Provide acquisition and greater protection to identified high yield aquifem

3) Expand the content and utilization of the statewide shared water use data base.

4) Analyze the water diversion registrations and permits to provide a suitable information base for
the appropriate -allocation of future water supplies.

5) Establish a statewide water conservation ethic educational process.

6) Amend and enforce state building codes to require water conservation.

7) Examine and develop needed alternatives for future water supply.

8) Conserve and maintain inactive or reserve status reservoirs determined important for future
regional use, and the watershed lands which protect them and which are presently owned by
water supply utilities.

ENFORCEMENT

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment through the enforcement of environ-
mental statutes.

OBJECTIVE-- Provide for the strict enforcement of comprehensive pollution control and resource
management statutes and regulations.

STATUS AND TRENDS: Numerous federal, state and local laws have been promulgated over the
years pertaining to pollution control and resource management without the resources to fully enforce
them and related rules and regulations. Admini trative and legal procedures to carry out enforcement
actions are often complex, cumbersome and time consuming. State penalty policies are presently based on
achieving compliance rather than taking strong punitive actions. Ile administrative civil penalties
program has not been updated to be consistent with new legislative actions.

STRATEGIES:

1) Provide adequate levels of state resources for enforcement activities and improve the en-
forcement capability.

2) Define the role of federal, state and local enforcement and private citizen suit authority.

3) Review existing environmental rules and regulations for consolidation, modification, deletion
and addition as necessary and clarify the state's enforcement policy.

4) Improve coordinated efforts and reporting among the attorney general, state's attorney and
enforcement agencies and improve inter/intra-departmental efforts.

-5) Provide continuous and updated law enforcement training.

6) Improve the existing environmental civil penalties system.

7) Dedicate fines to a fund for support of enforcement agencies.

8) Develop significant punitive fines and civil penalties for violations of environmental rules
and regulations.

9) Establish a hot-line for the reporting of violations of environmental rules and regulations.

10) Improve awareness and understanding in the regulated community concerning environ-
mental rules and regulations.

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

GOAL: Promote an environmentally knowledgeable and concerned public.

OBJECTIVE: Expand environmental education and information and encourage active public par-
ticipation.

STATUS & TRENDS: Environmental protection and natural resource management programs and
policies are becoming more complex in order to meet the increasingly sophisticated demands for a better
quality of life. Municipalities, environmental organizations, business and industry, and the public must
be provided information which will give them the ability and knowledge to participate in the en-
vironmental decision-making process. In addition, expanded information and education programs are
needed to develop a better appreciation and greater enjoyment of natural and cultural surroundings.

STRATEGIES:

1) Require the integration of formal environmental education programs into the state's primary
and secondary school curricula.

2) Promote adult environmental education programs.

3) Assure the public's involvement in environmental issues early in the decision-making process.

4) Coordinate and expand training for the diverse environmental decision-making and regulated
communities.

5) Encourage the support and use of natural history museums and nature centers.

FISHERIES AND FISHERIES HABITATS

GOAL: Conserve Connecticut's finfish and crustacea. and ensure their diversity.

OBJECTIVE: Foster natural propagation of fisheries and provide for sustained yield management of
selected species and protect, maintain, and restore fisheries habitats.

STATUS & TRENDS: There is an increasing demand for fishery resources. Competing and con-
flicting uses of land and water have caused reductions in some fish populations, suitable fish habitat,
and adequate access for individuals who fish. Habitat information is absent, outdated, or incomplete on
certain streams, rivers, lakes and ponds, and on the Long Island Sound. In certain areas, poor water
quality, degraded habitat, low flow conditions, over-fishing, and artificial barriers are causing adverse
impacts on fish populations, physiological conditions, harvest, and recreation.

STRATEGIES:

1) Conduct statewide stream, lake, and pond fishery surveys in order to identify fish habitat
conditions and management needs.

2) Develop and implement a waterfront access program, including more handicapped fishing access
points.

3) Procure lands to protect water sources for existing or potential hatcheries.

4) Develop an angler and harvest information program, including a survey of angler preferences,
attitudes, species sought, species harvested, and areas fished.

5) Evaluate and improve fish stocking programs, including feasibility, areas stocked, numbers and
species stocked, catch rates, and survival.

6) Remove existing impediments to the free movement of fish, or provide fish ladders and require
that the construction of new'dams not impede fish mobility.

7) Prepare a fisheries management plan for Long Island Sound in concert with New York and
Rhode Island.

8) Create conservation setback or buffer zones for the protection of fisheries and their habitat&

FLOOD CONTROL

GOAL: Protect life and property from the hazards of flooding.

OBJECTIVE: Prevent inappropriate development in flood prone areas and reduce existing flood
hazards.

STATUS & TRENDS: Natural storm events can potentially impact the 40,000 to 50,000 structures
in Connecticut's flood zones, and coastal processes cause recurring damage to shoreline structures and
alter coastal conditions. Although major structural control measures have been taken, should a majDr
state-wide storm similar to the 1955 hurricane occur, the state could still suffer significant
life-threatening events and economic losses. Less than 50 percent of the flood prone structures have
flood insurance and many are underinsured. Reduction of federal expenditures for construction of
prevention structures and for 'planning and regulatory programs will require state and local gov-
ernments to increase expenditures for adequate flood management efforts.

STRATEGIES:

1) Enhance development of inter-municipal cooperative flood mitigation, erosion control, and
emergency preparedness plans with emphasis on non-structural methods.

2) Enhance development of drainage basin based flood management programs, standards and prac-
tices.

3) Enhance development of increased cooperation, coordination, and funding for technical as-
sistance to municipalities.

4) Direct new development, redevelopment and infrastructure away from areas subject to flooding
and natural erosion.

5) Enhance development of a predictive model for flood levels under various storm conditions.

6) Enhance development of state-wide priority areas for flood protection activities.

7) Establish an automated coastal flood warning system based on natural drainage basins.

FORESTS

GOAL: Conserve Connecticut's forests for multiple uses.

OBJECTIVE: Foster renewable and diverse natural resource management of public and private-
ly-owned forests.

STATUS & TRENDS: Connecticut's predominantly oak- hickory forest type is a much desired
resource of the state forest products industry. Failure to practice a multiple use management system
however, limits the use of this valuable renewable natural resource. Although Connecticut is presently
two-thirds forested, most ownership is in small holdings, making management difficult and lessening
potential value. Unless forest land owners identify management goals for their forest acreage or prepare
management plans, the greater part of Connecticut's forest land will continue to remain unmanaged. In
addition, the demand for wood fuel will continue to contribute to the loss of higher valued forest
products.

STRATEGIES:

1) Expand state forest ownership based on a plan for multiple uses and the acquisition of private
in-holdings in state parks and forests.

2) Prepare comprehensive, long-term management plans for all state-owned forests and parks
recognizing the distinct differences in uses between state forests and parks.

3) Develop new incentives for the conservation of forestry lands and expand state resources to
meet conservation planting needs.

4) Promote public awareness of opportunities for and benefits of forest multiple usage, including
the retention of old forest stands.

5) Expansion of forest education programs for the general public at state conservation centers and
regional facilities.

6) Improve and expand forest management technical assistance programs to private landowners.

7) Develop and require adherence to guidelines for proper management of those forests receiving
tax advantages, and reduce the minimum qualifying acreage certification.

8) Encourage new markets for forest products where harvesting is desired by the private owners
after being advised of their options for conserving those forests, and require utilization of "Best
Management Practices" for forest harvesting.

9) Manage state park woodlands for other than commercial wood harvest

HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUT ANTS

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from the adverse effects of hazardous, air
pollutants.

OBJECTIVE: Implement and refine the hazardous air pollution control program.

STATUS & TRENDS: In 1986, the state developed and established its first comprehensive haz-
aTdous air pollution control program. This program sets forth provisions for emission and ambient air
concentration limitations, monitoring and testing of hazardous air pollutants, defining the effects of
hazardous air pollutants and an up--to-date inventory of sources of these pollutants. Without such a
program, the risk to public health and the environment may increase. However, as the knowledge of
impacts is better understood, the implementation will require refinements and improvements.

STRATEGIES:

1) Implement and refine a comprehensive program that regulates hazardous air pollutants through
emission and ambient air quality impact limitations.

2) Improve hazardous air pollutant monitoring capabilities enabling toxicity evaluations in the
permit review and issuance process.

3) Develop an inventory of hazardous air pollutant source emissions.

4) Develop ambient air and source sampling procedures for each regulated hazardous air pollutant.

5) Provide incentives to design and install innovative technologies for hazardous air pollution
control.

HAZARDOUS WASTE

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from the adverse effects of hazardous
waste.

OBJECTIVE: Minimize the generation of hazardous waste, recycle wherever possible, and provide
for proper management.

STATUS & TRENDS: Connecticut is a significant generator of hazardous waste produced by
industry, business, agriculture, municipalities, institutions and homeowners. Currently, there are
in-state commercial treatment facilities for aqueous and other wastes. There is no commercial in-
cinerator or hazardous waste landfill. Incentives for recycling are not adequate. Regulatory changes
have produced greater oversight of small quantity generators. There exists a large number of historic
disposal sites in the state, causing contamination that will require future remedial action. Many of the
responsible parties are insolvent, unknown, or unable to provide remedy.

STPLATEGIES.

1) Improve capabilities to administer a.comprehensive program to regulate the treatment,
storage, disposal, and transportation of hazardous waste.

2) Establish a priority list for clean-up of existing hazardous waste disposal sites and identify
funding sources to finance and manage those contaminated sites where no financially
.solvent responsible party can be identified.

3) Provide incentives for recycling and source reduction of hazardous waste.

4) Provide incentives to business and industry to reduce generation of hazardous waste through
use of substitute materials and changed manufacturing processes.

5) Improve the education of the general public, industries and businesses, and institutions
concerning the consfituents of the hazardous wastes they generate, as well as the proper
handling and disposal of these wastes.

6) Provide for the delegation of state authority to local agencies for the inspection of small
quantity hazardous waste generators.

7) Develop adequate safeguards prior to the development of facilities for the proper man-
agement of all unrecyclable hazardous wastes.

8) Continue the development of a household hazardous waste management program; educate
the public as to use reduction and alternatives to household hazardous material products;
educate the public regarding proper handling and disposal of these wastes and encourage the
recycling of these wastes on a regional basis within the state.
9) Update and improve the data base on the types and amounts of hazardous waste generated in
Connecticut and the methods used to manage the wastes generated.

10) Assure the availability of hazardous waste treatment or disposal facilities for Connecticut
generated wastes.

FHGH-LEVEL RADIOACTIVE NIATERLA-L

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from the improper handling and disposal of
high-level radioactive materials.

OBJECTIVE: Establish high-level radioactive material handling procedures and cooperate in a na-
tional disposal program.

STATUS & TRENDS: The United States Congress has determined management activities are the
responsibility of the federal government Encapsulation methods, site characterization, site selection, site
management, security, and providing for permanent records and markers for future generations are
among the management activities. If nothing is done to provide a safe method of disposal, high-level
waste material will continue to be stored at commercial and government operating facilities which are
located throughout the country and which will eventually reach capacity. Although disposal is the
responsibility of the federal government, Connecticut is concerned that high-level radioactive material is
transported within and through the state and all high-level radioactive waste in the state is being stored
at the industries and nuclear power facilities where it is produced. A further concern is that all existing
nuclear power plants will need to be decommissioned when their life spans are completed and the sites
will have to be properly safeguarded.

STRATEGIES:

1) Initiate development of a state plan for the eventual decommissioning and use of Connecticut's
existing nuclear facility sites.

2) Encourage Congress to create a program which provides greater federal support in research and
development of the use, handling, and disposal of high-level radioactive materiaL

3) Encourage research into the productive and peaceful use of high level radioactive wastes.

4) Encourage conservation of energy and the development of alternative energy sources in prep-
aration for the decommissioning of nuclear facilities.

INDOOR AIR POLLUTION

GOAL: Protect public health from the adverse effects of indoor air Pollution

OBJECnVE: Reduce artificially and naturally induced indoor air pollution.

STATUS & TRENDS: There is very limited scientific knowledge, public awareness, and control of
the wide range of conditions affecting the quality of the indoor environment. This inefficiency coupled
with the need and desire to conserve energy may be creating indoor conditions that place public health
at risk. Much attention has been given to the effects of cigarette smoke, paraformaldehyde insulation
and asbestos. This narrowly focused attention indicates that present knowledge and control is in-
complete given the probable adverse effects on indoor air quality by factors such as building materials,
naturally occurring radon, pollen, dust, heating by-products, cleaning agents, and furniture fabrication
and preservative materials.

STRATEGIES:

1) Identify, study and monitor sources of indoor air pollution and develop criteria and standards
that protect public health.

2) Develop, improve and implement a comprehensive program that prevents indoor air pollution
and mitigates source effects.

3) Develop and implement a strong public awareness program on the sources and control of indoor
air pollution.

4) Develop a radon detection and mitigation program.

5) Expand and improve programs which reduce public exposure to asbestos.

INLAND V=, LANDS

GOAL: Conserve and protect Connecticut's inland wetlands.

OBJECTIVE: Protect the natural values and functional roles of inland wetlands.

STATUS & TRENDS: Even though wetlands have been mapped by soil and vegetation type and
public awareness of some wetland values has increased, their in situ value and role have not been fully
understood nor used in the inland wetland evaluation process. Consistent local wetla'nd management
throughout the state is severely hindered by a lack of this knowledge and state intervention may be
necessary at times.

STRATEGIES:

1) Facilitate the delegation of inland wetland regulatory authority to those remaining munic-
ipalities regulated by the state.

2) Initiate a comprehensive educational program for local inland wetlands commissioners pro-
viding training on a regular basis.

3) Increase technical assistance and provide legal consultation to local inland wetlands com-
missions.

4) Identify by drainage basins the value and functional role of individual -wetlands and encourage
the use of this information in the evaluation process.

5) Identify wetlands of critical statewide significance, require local agencies to consult with the
Department of Environmental Protection prior to acting on applications for activities in these
areas, and designate significant wetlands as priority candidates for preservation.

6) Initiate a program of monitoring activities in inland wetlands by providing local agencies with
standardized mandatory reporting forras, tabulating the information provided, establishing a
retrievable data base, and assessing annual wetlands loss.

7) Clarify the relationship of the Commissioner of Environmental Protection's oversight powers to
the municipalities' permitting and enforcement authority, and review and refine statutory
requirements.

8) Develop policies and standards governing the. use of mitigation measures such as wetlands
creation, wetlands restoration, wetlands landbanking, and construction of storm water man-
agement structures.

9) Require that state and local highway, road and public works projects consider wetlands issues at
the earliest stages of project planning.

LAKES AND PONDS

GOAL: Protect the ecological integrity of lakes and. ponds.

OBJECTIVE: Achieve and maintain high water quality and natural habitat conditions in lakes
and ponds.

STATUS & TRENDS: Waterfowl and human-induced sources of nutrients cause accelerated eu-
trophication and will continue to degrade the ecological, aesthetic, and recreational value of Con-
necticut's lakes and ponds. Most municipalities have not implemented Best Management Practices for
non-point *sources of pollution, which are the prime causes of lake and pond degradation.

STRATEGIES:

1) Develop and implement a statewide multiple use lakes and ponds management program.

2) Prevent excessive nutrient enrichment of Connecticut's lakes and ponds through the prudent
management of the lake watershed.

3) Minimize the extent and use of chemicals in Connecticut's lakes and ponds and explore al-
- ternative control methods.

4) Conduct research on the control of septic system effluent and the management of the large
waterfowl populations on lakes and ponds.

5) Conduct research on the natural processes of lake and pond systems for use in management
programs.

6) Ensure suitable public access to lakes and ponds, consistent with sound environmental man-
agement.

LAND USE

GOAI_ Conserve natural and land resources and maintain natural diversity.

OBJECTIVE: Develop and implement a comprehensive and integrated program of land use reg-
ulation and land rights acquisition so that land use planning is in concert with the
carrying capacity and uniqueness of the natural landscape.

STATUS & TRENDS: Currently, land use planning and management, which is the key to the
maintenance of a healthy environment, is being addressed by state, local, federal, and private entities in
an inconsistent and relatively uncoordinated fashion. Often, land use controls which are vested with
individual municipalities do not usually address statewide or regional land and water resource needs. If
current trends continue, these unique land resources which support reservoirs, aquifers, agriculture,
recreation, wetlands, natural landscapes, riverine and coastal shorelines, and special economic devel-
opment needs will not be available or will not be protected for future use. In some cases, private land
trusts and other conservation groups are providing for the protection of select areas of their choosing.
Land use, its' conservation and preservation, remains the far-reaching issue confronting all aspects of
resources management and is the fulcrum on which the natural beauty and environmental health of the
state will balance.

STRATEGIES:

1) Promote stewardship of the natural land resources by government, corporate, municipal, and
private interests and coordinate the land conservation/preservation activities of these en-
tities.

2) Provide technical assistance and training to local and other land use decision makers in the
use of performance standards which conserve natural values and diversity and, encourage
the preservation of natural open space within development.

3) Set aside those unique land resources that are necessary to meet statewide and regional
resource needs.

4) Develop a state-wide set of criteria for open space and natural land allocation at the
municipal level.

5) Promote development such that an aesthetic and functional harmony with the surrounding
natural environment is attained and develop disincentives for inappropriate land use.

6) Promote implementation of the scenic roads, river protection, and other unique natural land
resource conservation statutes.

7) Educate and poll the public regarding the value of natural land resources.

8) Develop consistency among state, regional, and local plans of development.

9) Establish a statewide program for monitoring activities in land use.

10) Promote with incentives suburban and urban areas, to develop natural land set-aside and
reclamation programs.

LONG ISLAND SOUND

GOAL: Conserve and protect the natural resources of Long Island Sound.

OBJECTIVE: Develop and implement an interstate Long Island Sound management plan.

STATUS & TRENDS: Present knowledge is incomplete on Long Island Sound's natural resource
system and pollution impacts. Diverse use demands on Long Island Sound and its environs are often in
conflict, leading to fish and shellfish being threatened or rendered unusable, water-based recreational
opportunities becoming more limited, and major harbors exhibiting poor water quality characteristics. In
addition, Long Island Sound and its shoreline will continue to be under stress as a result of pollution,
development, dredging, open water disposal of dredged materials, and exploitation of marine resources
unless a comprehensive management program is established.

STRATEGIES:

1) Establish a comprehensive inventory of Long Island Sound's physical, chemical, and biological
characteristics.

2) Implement a comprehensive resource monitoring and water assessment program that Will
provide an understanding of Long Island Sound dynamics.

3) Intensify efforts to eliminate pollution sources and minimize land use conflicts in Long Island
Sound coastal areas.

4) Continue to support and actively participate in the state/federal Long Island Sound study.

5) Improve coordination among all existing federal, state, local, and interstate Long Island Sound
programs.

6) Develop a comprehensive management program for the conservation of marine resources.

7) Implement a long-range interstate dredged material management program for Long Island
Sound.

LOW-IaWEL RADIOAMVE MATERLAL

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from the improper handling and disposal of
low-level radioactive material.

OBJECTIVE: Establish low-level radioactive material handling procedures and provide for proper
disposal.

STATUS & TRENDS: The use of low-level radioactive material by hospitals, colleges and uni-
versities, and industrial facilities is expected to increase. Low-level radioactive waste is being disposed of
at three shallow land disposal facilities outside of Connecticut. The three states in which these facilities
are situated have indicated that they are no longer willing to accept the low-level nuclear waste of the
entire country. Siting a disposal facility is extremely difficult because of natural resource site con-
straints and the publies apprehension about disposal facility safety. Without proper handling and
disposal, the risk of exposure to low-level radiation will increase. In addition, the United States Congress
has mandated that each state provide for it's own disposal or join a regional compact.

STRATEGIES:

1) Pursue the interstate compact to manage low-level radioactive material.

2) Encourage the reuse, recycling, and proper handling of low-level radioactive material.

3) Encourage research into substitutions for use of low-level radioactive materials.

MR4-MAL AND SOILRESOURCES

GOAL: Assure the conservation and wise use of available mineral and soil resources.

OBJECTIVE: Develop and implement a comprehensive management program for Connecticut's
mineral and soil resources.

STATUS & TRENDS: There is no statewide mineral and soil resource assessment and management
program and these resources are consequently subject to diverse local regulation. Uncontrolled de-
velopment of these resources and the absence of land. reclamation in certain areas continue to cause
severe environmental damage. The extraction of Connecticut's major non-renewable resources--soil, sand,
gravel and traprock-requires appropriate long-term management planning and conservation practices.
Erosion and sedimentation continue to be a problem in Connecticut because of human induced and
uncontrolled natural processes. Information on Connecticut's mineral resources such as large scale
mapping and inventory of bedrock geology, surficial geology and soils is nearly complete. However,
some of this information is out of date and little of it has been computerized.

.STRATEGIES:

1) Determine the availability and use of non-renewable natural resources in the state.

2) Improve information on mineral and soil resources and facilitate its use.

3) Develop a uniform system of land development and extraction regulations to protect the
environment, control erosion and sedimentation, assure proper reclamation of extraction sites,
ensure the future availability of these resources and prevent their untimely exploitation.

4) Ensure compliance with land development and extraction regulations at all levels of gov-
ernment.

5) Expand soil conservation assistance to the public and private sectors.

6) Acquire or set aside areas found to contain critical mineral or soil conditions needed in the public
interest.

NATURAL BERITAGE

GOAL: Preserve Connecticut's natural heritage.

OBJECTIVE: Achieve protection of significant natural areas.

STATUS & TRENDS. Development has put severe pressure on certain types of natural areas, such
as tidal wetlands, barrier beaches, bogs, sand plains, cedar swamps, and traprock ridges. Further,
everyday use of sensitive resources is harming rare species and can also disrupt controlled scientific
studies. Without a strong state commitment to set aside and protect from intrusion these special natural
areas, there is a serious likelihood that the state will soon lose representative examples of its natural
heritage, suffer the loss of natural diversity and species habitats, and miss opportunities for study and
scientific research.

STRATEGIES:

1) Establish an acquisition and a management structure to ensure that designated natural areas are
protected, and that study and scientific research projects are carefully conducted.

2) Identify and assess the relative value of the state's remaining natural areas and create a formal
process to designate, prioritize, and protect significant natural areas.

3) Remove the statutory limitation on the amount of land that can be designated within the
Connecticut Natural Area Preserves Program.

4) Promote cornmunication, informational exchange, and cooperative efforts between government
and private land acquisition groups such as land trusts.

5) Encourage the development of other land preservation program such as municipal land banks.

NATURAL RESOURCES DATA BASE

GOAL: Provide natural resources data and support services to all levels of government and the
private sector.

OBJECTIVE: Maintain, expand and distribute uniform statewide natural resources data base through
a geographic information system.

STATUS & TRENDS: Sound environmental and land-use decisions require the use of large
amounts of credible natural resource information which is not always available nor in a form that is
easily utilized. Over the past half century, the state -and federal governments have made substantially
large investments in natural resource mapping, monitoring, and research. Much of this existing in-
formation, however, is in an incomplete and/or non-standardized format. Fortunately, computer tech-
nology can now provide better and more rapid storage, integration, analysis, retrieval, and conversion of
basic data into useful information for decision-makers.

STRATEGIES:

1) Complete and maintain basic resource and resource-related use inventories in a hard graphic and
digital form.

2) Monitor natural resource processes for long term trends and changes.

3) Conduct research on natural resource processes and properties still not understood.

4) Evaluate user needs for natural resource data bases in order to form an effective linkage
between the user community and the capability of the information system.

5) Maintain, expand, and improve a geographic information system and ensure statewide access.

NOISE

GOAL: Protect public health from the adverse effects of noise.

OBJECTIVE-- Improve and implement the noise control efforts.

STATUS & TRENDS: There is an increasing public awareness that noise is detrimental. At certain
levels, noise creates health, psychological, and sociological problems within the community and work-
place. The state has adopted comprehensive noise control regulations, but implementation is inadequate
and local land use planning does not adequately consider noise impacts.

STRATEGIIES:

1) Increase the state's abi lity to provide for more enforcement of state noise regulations and
attenuation of motor vehicle induced noise.

2) Provide for the delegation of some noise monitoring inspection and enforcement authority to
municipalities.

3) Encourage the adoption of municipal noise control ordinances and prop er land use planning to
prevent noise pollution.

NON-POINT SOURCE WATER POLLUTION

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from the impacts of non-point sources of
'pollution.

OBJECTIVE: Adopt controlsthat will reduce non-point sources of pollution.

STATUS & TRENDS: Best Management Practices have been developed and are being imple-
mented for some non-point pollution sources. Pollutant runoff from urban and rural areas, including oil,
gas, and vehicle exhaust deposits, animal wastes, fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and soil, continue as
localized problems. Further, ground water pollutants related to pesticides, chemical and petroleum
storage, leakage, and spills are widespread and not well controlled Or monitored. ANo, soil erosion and
stream sedimentation continue to irreparably damage several streams. Unless further non-point source
controls are developed, the number of wells contaminated will increase and surface water quality goals
will not be attained for several streams.

STRATEGIES:

1) Implement and improve Best Management Practices for the control of all non-point source
water pollution.

2) Accelerate the drafting, adoption and implementation of the Basin Planning Documents (303e).

3) Involve all levels of government in the implementation of non-point source pollution regulatory
programs through delegation of certain state authority.

4) Improve education and increase the incentive to control non-point source pollution at the mu-
nicipal level.

5) Develop and implement a stormwater discharge permit program.

OIL, PETROLEUM, AND CIUMUCALS

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from improper handling of oil, petroleum
and chemicals.

OBJECTIVE: Develop and implement a comprehensive regulatory program for the handling of oil,
petroleum, and chemicals.

S TATUS & TRENDS: The state is experiencing an increase in the number of leaks, spills, and
discharges of oil, petroleum, and chemicals into ground and surface waters. Although some storage and
handling are regulated, present mechanisms do not adequately manage above and below ground storage
and handling of oil, petroleum, and chemicals. Further, it is difficult to secure disposal facilities for
contaminated soils.

STRATEGIES:

1) Develop, implement, and improve a program for the construction, design, installation, removal,
monitoring, and maintenance of all above ground and underground oil, petroleum, and chemical
liquid storage systems.

2) Ensure that all existing underground oil, petroleum, and chemical storage systems including
residential systems have corrosion resistant components and/or protection devices.

3) Implement spill containment procedures for all above ground storage systems.

4) Establish a statewide comprehensive waste oil management program which includes non-
residential burning to utilize the energy value in waste oils.

5) Develop plans and coordination of responsibility for the accidental release of oil, petroleum, and
chemicals.

PARKS

GOAL: Provide a system of parks which are characteristic of Connecticut and address the
leisure and recreational needs of its citizens.

OBJECTIVES: Enhance and expand public access and use of the state's historical, cultural, and
natural resources consistent with the long term integrity of the resource.

STATUS & TRENDS: The pressure of land development coupled with a population density of over
600 people per square mile is creating a deficiency in the proportion of lands dedicated to the retention
of the natural landscape and available for recreational opportunitie@. The land acquisition efforts of
both the state and municipalities have not been able to keep pace with private sector residential and
commercial development interests. Use levels at the more popular recreational sites have created over-
crowded conditions, deterioration of the resource base@ and temporary closures of facilities because of
capacity limitations. The deficiency is particularly acute at water-based sites. There are significant
undeveloped lands that are representative of the natural character of this state; however, availability
and accessibility are restricted to the time frame remaining before private development precludes public
acquisition and protection. Historic properties currently in public ownership have traditionally received
marginal recognition and protection.

STRATEGIES:

1) Establish an expanded state program to acquire and develop areas with recreational potential of
statewide and regional -significance.

2) Identify and prioritize areas with significant outdoor recreation potential with particular em-
phasis on areas with the capability to support major water-based recreation facilities.

3) Encourage involvement with private sector organizations and interests for access and use of
additional property dedicated to 6pen-space/recreation purposes and multiple use concepts.

4) Provide for effective development and use of public lands with particular emphasis on pro-
tection of the uniqueness of the resource base..

5) Review, improve, and implement management plans for individual state parks which provide
diverse recreational opportunities consistent with maintaining the environmental integrity of
the resource.

6) Expand public,relation efforts and citizen involvement in park land use decisions.

7) Encourage through grants-in-aid an expanded municipal program to acquire and develop areas
with recreation potential of local significance.

PESTICIDES

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from any adverse effects associated with
the storage, use, and disposal of pesticides.

OBJECTIVE., Minimize the amount of pesticides used and decrease public and non-target species
exposure to them.

STATUS & TRENDS: Excessive and increasing use of pesticides for dwellings, lawns, ornamental
plantings, and farming is creating an unknown potential for human exposure for which uncertain
toxicological consequences will occur. Further, there are large quantities of pesticides being improperly
stored throughout the state, and some ground water contamination has already resulted from the
agricultural use of pesticides. There is an inadequate data base to evaluate the presence and health effects
of many pesticides and, in addition, there is a lack of routine monitoring for pesticide contamination in
ground or surface water, soil, and ambient air. The state has only a very limited capability in regard to
pesticide toxicology and is dependent on the slow registration process of the federal government to
provide necessary criteria for action.

STRATEGIES:

1) Expand and improve a comprehensive program and provide technical assistance aimed at com-
mercial applicators and homeowners for alternative methods of pest control including in-
tegrated pest management, biological controls, and biodegradable pesticides.

2) Provide technical assistance and support to food producers on the proper use of pesticides and
alternative methods of pest control.

3) In coordination with the federal government, determine the toxicological properties and long
term effects of pesticides, including not only the active ingredients in the formulation, but also
the so-called inactive ingredients that are used as carriers or dispersants.

4) Improve the certification process of pesticide applicators.

5) Expand product registration to include the review of old as well as new pesticides and -increase
the applicator, dealer, and producer inspection capability of the state.

6) Increase contact with commercial applicators and the agricultural community to ensure the
proper disposal of banned and unwanted pesticides.

7) Develop and enforce a regulatory program that strictly controls larger users of pesticides.

RECREATION

GOAL: Provide for environmentally sound recreational opportunities.

OBJECTIVE: Enhance and expand opportunities for recreational use of Connecticut's historical,
cultural, and natural resources consistent with sound environmental management.

STATUS & TRENDS: 17here is an increasing strain on the quality of recreation in Connecticut as a
result of overcrowding and overuse of existing facilities, with limited resources for the expansion and
development of new facilities. For example, in contrast to the huge investments made in the cleanup Of
the state's waters, relatively little effort has been made to utilize these resources for new recreational
opportunities. In addition, public swimming opportunities on Long Island Sound are still limited. The
current land acquisition program is inadequate to address these and other public recreational demands
and/or to acquire properties of historic, cultural, or unique natural resource value. This also indicates
that the state park system will play a reduced role in tourism with a corresponding decrease in direct
and indirect revenues to the state and private sector.

STRATEGIES:

1) Assess the carrying capacity of recreational areas in order to determine their proper envi-
ronmental management.

2) Improve and develop recreational facilities and programs throughout the state.

3) Assess and acquire additional land and water resources to support existing and anticipated
demand for various recreational activities.

4) Expand the recreational use of waterways that have, and are anticipated to have, improved
water quality.

5) Increase the availability of areas suitable for swimming and other coastal related recreation in
Long Island Sound.

RIVERS

GOAI_- Conserve Connecticut's rivers and streams.

OBJECTIVE: Develop and implement a statewide rivers management program.

STATUS & TRENDS: There are over 2,500 rivers and streams in Connecticut providing some 6,000
billion gallons of water a year to Long Island Sound. The current demands on Connecticut's rivers and
streams and adjacent lands are increasingly competitive and often conflicting. Although many state and
local programs exist that address various aspects of river and stream related land and water use, no
single comprehensive statewide policy nor use strategy exists to ensure proper management and con-
servation of these valuable resources. Basic inventories needed to assess both the existing hydrologic
conditions and water allocations are either incomplete or have not been integrated on a drainage basin
basis for each river system. Major differences exist on the definition of river management and beneficial
uses ranging from just the aquatic system of the river itself to the land and water uses of the entire
drainage basin encompassing the river. There is a need to develop a statewide river management program
that minimizes conflicts while providing diverse public opportunities consistent with maintaining the
environmental integrity of the resource.

STRATEGIES:

1) Undertake an assessment of Connecticut's rivers and streams and their associated values in order
to determine beneficial uses and appropriate management.

2) Develop and implement a comprehensive rivers program.

3) Provide technical and financial assistance to municipalities undertaking the development of
river corridor management plans, which include local stream preservation and policies and
programs.

4) Establish a state rivers clearinghouse to coordinate and share information.

5) Oppose the diversion of interstate watercourses that impact the availability of water in Con-
necticut for public and environmental needs.

SHELLMH

GOA1_- Conserve Connecticut's shellfish and enhance the commercial and recreational har-
vest.

OBJECTIVE: Protect, improve and increase habitats for a sustained yield of shellfish.

STATUS & TRENDS: Many of the state's once-thriving shellfish beds have been closed because of
various sources of pollution along the coastal areas. In addition, shellfish habitat is also being lost as a
result of coastal dredging and siltation from activities in upland development areas. As a result of this
degradation of shellfish habitat and resources, there is an,increasing risk to human health, a loss of
recreational shellfishing, and diminished commercial harvesting. Other problems include the absence of
shellfish base and spawning stock for the state's valuable oyster beds, absence of a program to enable
closed shellfish areas to be reopened, a lack of uniformity in jurisdiction and regulatory authority by
local enforcement, and limited enforcement efforts which allow overharvesting and taking of shellfish
from polluted waters.

STRATEGIES:

1) Develop and implement a program to reclaim, maintain, and improve shellfish beds and hab-
itats.

2) Implement pollution abatement which will allow reopening of those shellfishing areas pres-
ently closed.

3) Increase shellfish enforcement capabilities, in part by increasing fines and strengthening related
environmental laws.

4) Evaluate and improve the procedure used to open and close shellfish beds.

5) increase state and local revenue derived from shellfish and aquaculture harvesting and allocate
such funds for improved management methods.

6) Resolve state and municipal conflicts over management methods.

7) Develop a comprehensive marketing study to analyze the present size of the shellfish and
aquaculture industry and its growth potential.

SOLID WASTE

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from the adverse effects of improper solid
waste management.

OBJECTIVE: Provide for the safe and adequate disposal of solid waste by minimizing solid waste
generation and land disposal, and by developing resource recovery and recycling.

STATUS & TRENDS: Since many landfills were sited prior to current ground and surface water
quality goals and standards, associated ground and surface water contamination problems significantly
limit and/or prevent expansion of active landfills. In addition, there are few, if any, socially, politically,
or environmentally suitable areas for solid waste disposal sites. This lack of resource development
ability is placed under further stress by the facts that most existing permitted landfills will reach their
capacity by the end of the decade, and that long-term economically feasible disposal capacity will be
needed to support resource (energy) recovery systems. This situation is further exacerbated since many
Connecticut municipalities have not developed long-term management plans for all non-hazardous solid
waste. In addition, adequate resource recovery systems, including both recycling and energy reclamation,
are not becoming available when needed.

STRATEGEES:

1) Adopt and implement a statewide solid waste management plan for municipal mixed waste,
bulky wastes and special wastes (non-hazardous industrial wastes and water treatment sludges)
including specific actions to meet the immediate and long-term needs of each municipality.

2) Close and secure those landfills which are either filled to capacity or have experienced un-
controlled discharges of contaminants to the state's ground and surface waters in violation of
water quality standards.

3) Provide incentives for source separation and recycling and require Connecticut municipalities to
participate in volume reduction of solid waste by means of resource (energy) recovery and
recycling.

4) Develop incentives for strengthening markets for recycling and investigate means and fea-
sibility of source reduction, including minimizing packaging.

5) Ensure the proper siting of res ource recovery, recycling, and land disposal facilities.

6) Develop safe and acceptable sites for the disposal of bulky wastes.

7) Educate the public on the importance of waste reduction and recycling.

STATE AND IDCAL GOVERNAU24T COORDINATION

GOAL: Promote state and local government coordination to achieve statewide environmental
goals.

OBJECTIVE: Develop shared management responsibilities between state and local governments in
implementing environmental protection programs.

STATUS & TRENDS: Without a cooperative effort between State and local agencies, environ-
mental needs will not be satisfied. Local officials are assuming increased responsibilities for the im-
plementation of environmental programs without adequate resource support, and there is an increasing
awareness of the need for broad participation in addressing environmental issues. Further, management
of natural resource activities at state and local levels is inconsistent and assistance and guidance to local
governments and agencies are inadequate.

STRATEGIES:

1) Improve, coordinate and expand state support to local governments, including technical as-
sistance, financial support, regulatory and educational programs. ,

2) Coordinate federal, state and local environmental protection implementation strategies.

3) Implement the delegation of state authority as provided by the Connecticut state statutes.

4) Ensure non-duplication of environmental responsibility within state government.

SURFACE AND GROUND WATER QUAI=

GOAL: Protect public health and the environment from the adverse effects of water pol-
lutants.

OBJECTIVES: Attain and maintain Connecticut's surface and ground water quality standards.

STATUS & TRENDS: Since the enactment of Connecticut's 1967 Clean Water Act, significant
improvements have been made in the state's surface water quality, although some surface waters have
not yet attained designated goals. In 1980, the program was expanded and Connecticut was the first state
to adopt a comprehensive groundwater quality program. In spite of these efforts, existing high quality
waters are in jeopardy and may become permanently contaminated and unfit for use. Among the major
problems left to be dealt with are inadvertent or accidental discharges and land use development
impacts. As more incidents of contamination are identified, there will be increased difficulty in risk
assessment, establishment of health effects, and designation of tolerance limits.

STRATEGIES:

1) Develop additional controls and measures that maintain water quality standards and provide
for growth.

2) Continue to issue permits which require the best pollution control methods as they become
available.

3) Require municipalities and utilities to identify and protect water supply sources in their
planning, zoning, wetlands, and land acquisition programs.

4) Develop and encourage Best Management Practices for non-point source pollution control.

5) Identify and protect high yield aquifers through a joint state/municipal cooperative program.

6) Provide incentives for municipal wastewater collection and treatment systems.

7) Maintain and improve the Connecticut Water Quality Standards and Classification System and
the Basin Planning Strategies.

8) Continue to identify and eliminate untreated sources of pollutants, including spills and failing
septic systems.

THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES

GOAI_ Preserve threatened and endangered plant and animal species.

OBJECTIVE. Establish a comprehensive threatened and endangered species program.

STATUS & TRENDS: Destruction and degradation of habitats are causing the populations of
certain plant and animal species to drop below a number suitable for maintenance. The greatest cause of
habitat destruction is rapid land development, which has brought about a continuing decline in many
species, including those which are already threatened or endangered. The actual impact on species has
been difficult to assess, as existing inventories are not current, and none covers both plant and animal
species.

STRATEGIES:

1) Develop appropriate legislation to protect threatened and endangered species and to protect
declining species before they reach a threatened or endangered level.

2) Expand a multi-level, interdisciplinary threatened and @endangered species program which in-
cludes inventory, identification, research, regulations, and education with public and private
sector organizations.

3) Protect significant habitats necessary to the continuance of threatened and endangered plant and
animal species.

4) Augment the Natural Diversity Data Base inventory with additional programs to identify
threatened and endangered species; continue to research and monitor populations, and to main-
tain and update the computerized data bank.

5) Create an advisory committee to assist in directing a comprehensive threatened and endangered
species program.

TEDAL IVETIANDS

GOA1_ Preserve Connecticut's tidal -wetlands.

OBJECTIVE. Prevent the loss and degradation of existing tidal wetlands and foster restoration of
previously degraded ones.

STATUS & TRENDS: By 1969, approximately one-half of the state's 30,000 acres of tidal wetlands
had been destroyed, causing significant damage to m arine ecological systems. Since that time, with the
passing of tidal wetland legislation, loss of tidal wetlands as a result of development has almost ceased.
Mapping, however, has not been complete, and many tidal wetlands have been further degraded. It is
felt that even with the strict regulation of activities proposed for tidal wetland areas, more degradation
of wetlands can be expected as a result of adjacent upland development and existing restriction of tidal
flows.

STRATEGEES:

1) Identify and map undesignated tidal wetlands and critical supporting upland areas.

2) Assess the impacts of mosquito control activities, tidal restrictions, upland area development,
marina operations and expansion, dredging, water diversion, erosion caused by recreational and
commercial boating, and discharges from recreational vessels, and develop appropriate land use
regulations.

3) Develop a wetland compensation strategy based on wetland restoration for certain permitted
activities in tidal wetlands.

4) Develop a strict regulatory strategy and standards and criteria for wetland creation projects.

TOXIC WATER POLLUTANTS

GOAL: Protect public health and, the environment from the adverse effects of toxic water
pollutants.

OBJECTIVES: Develop and implement a toxic water pollution control program.

STATUS & TRENDS: Currently, waste treatment which can completely remove all traces of toxic
substances either does not exist or is not economically feasible. Further, technology-based treatment
requirements are not stringent enough to protect against toxic impact. In addition, the means of reducing
the loading of household and commercial toxic wastes to municipal wastewater facilities, which are not
designed to treat toxic waste, have not been examined. Along with the technological constraints, the
long-term public health effects and risks of many toxic substances caused by the consumption of
contaminated fish and shellfish are poorly understood and the contribution of non-point sources of toxic
substances to Connecticut streams is unknown.

STRATEGIES:

1) Implement a comprehensive program that regulates point source discharges of toxic substances
through the issuance of discharge permits and enforcement of permit conditions.

2) Establish toxic criteria for surface water and wasteload allocations for specifically-affected
stream segments.

3) Improve toxic monitoring capabilities, enabling increased use of toxicity evaluations in the
permit review and issuance process.

4) Develop methods to assess combined impacts of toxic discharges to aquatic habitat.

5) Establish a data base of test results on indigenous finfish, shellfish and benthic organisms which
will help ascertain the extent of the impact of toxic discharges.

6) Provide incentives to design and install innovative technologies for toxic water pollution
control.

WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

GOAI_ Conserve and provide water resources for beneficial uses.

OBJECTIVE. Develop and implement multi-use management for surface and ground water.

STATUS & TRENDS: Surface and ground waters are finite in quantity, unequally distributed
throughout the state, and subject to increasing multiple use and jurisdictional demands. The many
competing and conflicting demands for the allocation of Connecticut's water resources include water
supply, ecological habitat support, waste assimilation, navigation, water-based recreation, flood control,
energy production, and natural aesthetics. Water allocation decisions will continue to be hampered
without a comprehensive, centralized data base on resource availability and water use needs. In addition,
water use rights and statutory controls are often in conflict or confusing, and impede prudent man-
agement of the resource.

STRATEGIES:

1) Establish natural hydrologic system characteristics, including critical low flow conditions for
all drainage basins and develop a data base which includes both abiotic and biotic information to
facilitate management decisions related to water quantity issues.

2) Determine the amount of water needed to maintain and enhance ecological water resources
systems.

3) Develop a system to assess water usage, evaluate competing and conflicting demands, and
establish allocation priorities.

4) Clarify water law and administrative responsibility to resolve competing and conflicting water
uses.

WnLDLI]FE AND W1--LDL11FE HABITATS

GOAL: Conserve Connecticut's wildlife species and ensure their diversity.

OBJECTIVE: Foster natural propagation and provide for sustained yield management of selected
species and protect, maintain, and restore wildlife habitat.

STATUS & TRENDS: Development is causing wildlife displacement and loss of valuable habitat.
As a result, public and private lands available for wildlife management will decrease and become
overused. The stress on these habitats will cause many species to forage at farms and gardens leading to
nuisances and potentially to indiscriminate destruction of various wildlife species. In addition to habitat
loss, some wildlife species will dimini h because of the lack of management knowledge of their status,
habitat needs, and natural controls. At this time, there is little incentive for landowners to maintain or
improve their land to benefit wildlife.

STRATEGIES:

1) Conduct research and maintain an inventory on the status of wildlife species.

2) Increase the state acquisition and/or management of areas for wildlife.

3) Provide technical assistance to landowners, municipalities, land trusts, and water utility com-
panies for the protection and enhancement of wildlife habitat.

4) Expand wildlife conservation education programs and facilities and increase opportunities for
related wildlife recreational activities.

5) Establish a wildlife mitigation and replacement fee program for activities that destroy wildlife
illegally; funds from this program to be used for enforcement, replacement and wildlife
education.

6) Implement a state incentive program for wildlife habitat improvement on agricultural lands.

CONTINUUM OF STEWARDSE[IP

Environment/2000: Connecticut's Environmental Plan presents a great challenge to all the
citizens of this State in achieving a quality environment and a unique opportunity in participating in
the stewardship of our precious natural resources. Achievement of the Plan's goals and objectives and
implementation of the strategies requires the commitment of government, local boards and commissions,
business and industry, and ultimately, the commitment of each individual.

While the Department of Environmental Protection is required to prepare this state-wide En-
vironmental Plan and administer many of the programs necessary to achieve its goals and objectives, it
cannot be held responsible for all of its implementation. The Department will, however, be accountable
for much of the implementation through annual reporting and required revisions of the Plan.

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY
Public Act 87-142 establishes the framework for the adoption of Environment/2000 as the
State environmental plan and requires annual program progress reports and revisions to be considered
for adoption every five years. This Act creates mechanisms to assure implementation of management
strategies, that changes are accommodated, that the public is involved and environmental progress is
being achieved. Most important, the Act establishes a permanent advisory board to assist in the review of
the Department's progress towards meeting the goals and.objectives, the adoption of measurement
indicators and the redirection of goals and objectives which are found with time to need change. One of
the most important roles of the advisory board will be to bring the citizens' perspective to the
establishment of priorities. Priorities for achievement of goals and objectives, use of Department re-
sources and the expenditure of funds have not been set. The advisory board and this state's citizens must
guide these choices. The advisory board must also consider the balance needed between this Plan and
other state plans, such as transportation, energy, housing, and economic development.

Accountability will be brought to the Plan through the expanded role of the Council on En-
vironmental Quality. The Act requires the Council to report annually to the Governor on the progress
towards achieving the goals and objectives. In addition, an annual conference is required to report to the
public the status of the achievement of the goals and objectives. This conference will provide the
opportunity to introduce changes and discuss emerging issues. Most importantly, the conference assures
the public a role in setting and advising on environmental goals and objectives.

STATE RESPONSIBILITY
Several tools are available within the Department of Environmental Protection and the rest of
state government to implement the strategies and accomplish the goals and objectives. However, major
efforts must be focused to local government boards and commissions to implement needed strategies.
Further, education and outreach are needed to assure implementation at the individual citizen level.

At the Department level, the measurement, review, and continued development of the Plan will
be a permanent function with assigned staff. The Advisory Board's and ad hoc's committees inputs will
be sought and used to address emerging issues and modify existing elements of the Plan. Department
program directors will focus their program objectives to be consistent with the Plan and performance
evaluation will be weighed accordingly to their success. The annual budgetary and legislative processes
will reflect implementation and/or maintenance of the adopted management strategies. Budget requests
will be based on the implementation of the environmental goals and objectives being achieved by the
request. Department legislative requests will also focus on the need to enhance or protect the natural
resources consistent with the adopted Plan and it will review other legislation in the same manner.

The Department, within its authority, will also review. applications for use of the State's
resources and rule on them relative to their consistency with this Plan, thus providing a new means of
overview. The Department has never before been able to evaluate actions within the total framework of
meeting a Plan. Adoption of this Plan makes this possible.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND CITIZEN RESPONSIBILITY
Actions of local government to achieve the goals and objectives of this Plan will be supported by
delegation of state authority, increased financial assistance, and technical information and training.
Programs like ground water management, inland wetlands and wastewater treatment are examples of
where local programs are being enhanced today.

The continuing stewardship of Connecticut's natural heritage and resources demands the com-
mitment of all our citizens to preserve, protect, and enhance our environment. Each person must
participate, if only at the level of recycling their bottles and cans, planting wildlffe buffer bunches, or
checking their automobile for acceptable air emissions.

Throughout the development of Environment/2000, the need consistently emerged for en-
hanced education programs to reach the school children through their basic training, to reach home-
owners on proper environmental practices, such as water conservation, the use of pesticides or disposal of
wastes, and to reach local decision makers serving on inland wetland and/or conservation commissions
or zoning commissions on the effects their actions have on the resources they are managing. A com-
mitment to environmental education must be made through, governmental and educational institutions
so as to ensure that the people have the tools to make proper decisions in their own life and those they
affect.

The role as a citizen of this State in continuing Environment/2000 is one of a broad par-
ticipatory practice. Each citizen must become a trustee of Connecticut's environment and take re-
sponsibility in properly managing our resources. A- commitment in maintaining and achieving our
agreed upon quality of life must be made. Opin *ions as to how we preserve and conserve our resources
must be strongly voiced at both the local and state governmental levels. Many citizens need to become
involved and must share in the responsibility in seeing to the achievement of our goals and objectives.

FINAL WORDS
Environmental goals and management strategies do not implement themselves. The goals and
strategies outlined in this document include tasks for each segment of society. If we are to be successful
in meeting the challenge set before us, it will require new legislation, additional government spending,
and perhaps significant changes in the way all of us live today. No one denies that there will be burdens
and trade-offs involved in implementing this Plan.

Nevertheless, it is axiomatic that the cost of prevention is always cheaper than the cost of repair.
In the long run, the expenses assumed, the burdens taken on, the sacrifices that are made, will be far
outweighed by the benefits to be derived.

Having worked closely with the citizens of Connecticut, the collective writers of these goals and
strategies are optimistic about what can be done. The key is that we must make a commitment to do it
together. A great challenge is before us. It is hoped we can meet that challenge with unselfishness and
responsibility, before any more irreversible harm is done to our environment. We must be willing to
accomplish this most pressing and difficult task.

PUBLIC ACT NO. 87-142: THE STATE-WIDE ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN

Be it enacted by the-Senate and House of Representatives in General Assembly convened:

Section 1. Section 22a-8 of the general statutes is repealed and following is substituted in lieu
thereof:

(a) The commissioner shall formulate and from time to time revise a state-wide environmental
plan for the management and protection of the quality of the environment and the natural resources of
the state in furtherance of [the] legislative policy. The plan shall establish environmental goals and
objectives and describe strategies for their achievement. In developing the plan the commissioner shall
consider any other state-wide policies and plans he deems appropriate. The first of such plans shall be
submitted to the governor for his approval on or before September 1, 1987, and revisions, at intervals of
five years thereafter, shall be made thereto. Upon its approval by the governor, such plan shall serve as
a guide for the people of the state and for the state and its political subdivisions for the preservation of
the environment.

(b) The commissioner shall establish an advisory board to assist him in preparing the plan and
any revisions thereto. The board shall reflect the state's geographical diversity and include members
representing municipalities, environmental groups, business and industries, education and the public and
any other persons the commissioner deems appropriate.

(c) The commissioner shall annually conduct a conference to report achievement of the goals and
objectives established in the plan and to encourage public discussion of environmental concerns.

Sec. 2. Section 22a-12 of the general statutes is repealed and the following is substituted in
lieu thereof:

(a) The council shall submit annually to the governor an environmental quality report, which
shall set forth: (1) The status of the major environmental categories including, but not limited to, the air,
the water and the land environment; (2) current and foreseeable trends in the quality management and
utilization of the environment and the effect of such trends on the social, economic and health
requirements of the state: (3) the adequacy of available natural resources for fulfilling human and
economic requirements of the state in the light of projected population pressures; (4) a review of the
programs and activities of the state and local governments and private organizations with particular
reference to their effect on the environment and on the conservation, development and utilization of
natural resources; (5) a program for remedying the deficiencies of existing programs and activities,
together with recommendations for legislation, and (6) the progress towards achievement of the goals
and objectives established in the state-wide environmental plan.

(b) The council shall have the authority to require submission by all state agencies, at all stages of
development, of construction plans for review and comment by the council which shall include, but not
be limited to, all plans of the department of transportation which anticipate the paving or building upon
land not previously paved or built upon, and location or expansion of noise-producing facilities such as
airports; and all plans of the department of administrative services which anticipate the paving or
building upon land not previously paved or built upon, the construction of structures occupying a
substantially greater air space than predecessor structures in the same location, and the location or
expansion of noise or pollution-producing facilities such as heating plants; provided the function of the
council with respect to such plans shall be advisory and consultative only.

Sec. 3. This act shall take effect July 1, 1987.

LIST OF ENDORSEMENTS

The following organ izations and individuals have endorsed in full or part, Environment/2000:
Connecticut's Environmental Plan and/or process.

Berlin High School
Avi Ornstein, Science Department Head

Canton Conservation Commission
Roger S. Thrall, Chairman

Citizens
Katie Fieldelson
John S. Rankin, Jr,

Citizens Advisory Council to the Division of Conservation and Preservation
Edward Kluck, Chairman

Connecticut Association of Conservation and Inland Wetlands Commissions
Nancy N. Kriz, President

Connecticut Association of Directors of Health
Hudson H. Birden, Jr, President

Connecticut Association of Metal Finishers
Jamie Vincent Gregg, Director

Connecticut Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts,Inc.
Mortimer A. Gelston, President

Connecticut Audubon Society
John F. Reiger, Executive Director

Connecticut Bar Association, Conservation and Environmental Quality Section
Mark R. Sussman, Chairman

Connecticut Business and Industry Association
Kenneth 0. Decko, President

Connecticut Conservation Association, Inc.
William Urban, Executive Director

Connecticut Council on Soil and Water Conservation
Peter Faber, Chairman

Connecticut Engineers in Private Practice, Inc.
Allen V. Herring, President
Faith St. Claire, Executive Director

Connecticut Farm Bureau Association, Inc.
Norma OLeary, President

Connecticut Forest and Park Association, Inc.
John E. Hibbard, Executive Director

Connecticut Recreation and Park Association
Rick Maynard, President

Connecticut River Watershed Council, Inc.
Hiram P. Maxim, Chairman

Connecticut Society of Professional Engineers
Kenneth Lipman, President
Faith St. Claire, Executive Director

Connecticut Water Pollution Abatement Association
Michael J. Bisi, President

Connecticut Water Well Association
John F. Sima Jr, President

Connecticut Water Works Association
Richard E. DesRoches, President

Farmington River Watershed Association
Suzanne C. Wilkins, (Former) Executive Director

Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc.
Susan Faulkner, Chairman

Guilford Conservation Commission
Virginia Paige, Vice Chairman

Hartford Audubon Society, Inc.
Joyce S. Marshall, President

The League of Women Voters of Connecticut
Jane S. Garbacz, President
Joanne Foster, Natural Resources Chairman

Town of Manchester, Recreation Department
Donna Richardson, Representative

'National Audubon Society
Marshall Case, Vice President

New London Garden Club
Mrs. Russell Brown, President

Northeast Utilities Service Co.
William B. Ellis, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

Roaring Brook Nature Center
Jay Kaplan, Director

Sierra Club, Connecticut Chapter
Carolyn Richter, Chairperson

State of Connecticut, Council on Environmental Quality
Karl J. Wagener, Executive Director

Thames River Watershed Association
Ronald R. Whiteley, President

The Nature Conservancy, Connecticut Chapter
Les Corey, Executive Director

The United Illuminating Co.
Marcus R. MacCraven, Vice President

Town of Waterford
Lawrence J. Bettencourt, First Select

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service
Philip H. Christensen, State Conservationist

Waterford-East Lyme Shellfish Commission
J. Patrick Kelly, Chairman

Westbrook Conservation Commission
Thomas M. ODell, Chair an

Woodbridge Inland Wetlands Agency
Eric T. Pierson, Vice Chairman

ENVIRONMENT/2000: ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Thomas Archer William A. Ellis
Formerly of Electric Boat Division Citizen

Hudson H. Birden, Jr. Susan Faulkner
CT Assoc. of Directors of Health The Federated Garden Clubs of CT, Inc.

Diane K. Blackman Thomas H. Fitzpatrick
Formerly of Sierra Club CT Petroleum Council
Raymond Bovich Joanne Foster
CT Marine Trades Association Ixague of Women Voters

Russell L. Brennemann Susan Giordano
Attorney CT Forum of Regulated Environmental Professionals
Gerry Capriulo Jean Good
Citizen The Federated Garden Clubs of CT, Inc.
Marshall T. Case Meg Goodwin
National Audubon Society Formerly of the Long Island Sound Task Force
Roger Christian Michael J. Hanley
CT Conservation Assoc. CT Bankers Assoc.
Roland C. Clement Lucas He ld
CT Audubon Society and CT Ornithological Assoc. The Middletown Press
John W. Conners John Hibbard
C-r Society of Professional Engineers Cr Forest and Park Assoc.
Joey Corcoran Chris Hof
CT Audubon Society Windham Water Pollution Control Facility
Nora Jensen
Les Corey Citizen
The Nature Conservancy, CT Chapter
Jay Kaplan
Marianne Corona Roaring Brook Nature Center
Middlefield Inland Wetland Commission
J. Patrick Kelly
Jean Cronin Waterford/East Lyme Shellfish Commission
National Solid Waste Management Assoc.
Robert J. Klancko
Robert Crook The United Illuminating Co.
CT Sportsmen Alliance
Robert Kloepfer
Jean P. Curtis The United Illuminating Co.
Berlin High School
Edward A. Kluck
James DeWitt DEP Citizens Advisory Council/Conservation and
C-r Assoc. of Metal Finishers Preservation

Nancy Kriz Otto Schaffer
CT Assoc. of Conservation and Inland Wetlands South Central Regional Water Authority
Commissions
Denise Schlener
Philip B. Leavenworth CT River Watershed Council
Environmentalist
Gregory A. Sharp
Chris T. Maier Attorney
The CT Entomological Society Louis Shuman
Marion McLaughlin CT Construction Industries Association
CT Citizens Action Group
John F. Sima, Jr.
Susan Merrow Sima Drilling Co.
The Sierra Club Faith St Claire
Richard Miller CT Society of Professional Engineers
CT Business and Industry Assoc. Barbara Surwillo
CT Fund for the Environment
Norma OLeary
CT Assoc. of Soil and Water Conservation Districts/ Mark R. Sussman
CT Farm Bureau Connecticut Bar Assoc.
Virginia Paige Shirley W. Talcott
CT Sierra Club New London Garden Club
John S. Rankin, Jr. Sally L Taylor
University of Connecticut Connecticut College
William C. Renfro William Urban
Northeast Utilities Service Co. Cr Conservation Association

Donna Richardson Howard Weiss
CT Recreazion and Parks Assoc. Project Oceanology

John Rieger Ronald Whiteley
CT Audubon Society, Inc. Thames River Watershed Association

James B, Rokos Suzi Wilkins
Torrington Area Health District Formerly of Farmington River Watershed Association

Joyce Rowley Barry L Wulff
Ledyard Inland Wetlands Office Natural Resources Council of CT, Inc.

GLOSSARY

ACIDIFICATION - The process of becoming an acid; the compound which yields hydrogen ions when
dissolved in water, whose hydrogen can be replaced by metals or basic radicals; or which reacts with
bases to form salts and water (neutralization).

AMBIENT - The surrounding or normally occurring conditions in the environment.

AQUIFER - A geologic formation, group of formations, or part of a formation that contains sufficient
saturated permeable material to yield significant quantities of water to wells and springs.

ASBESTOS - T'he generic term describing a variety of naturally formed hydrated silicates that, upon
mechanical processing, separate into mineral fibem

BENTMC - Refers to organisms or material associated with the bottom of watercourses.

BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPs) - Denotes practical and effective measures which, when
applied at potential sources of contamination, will prevent or minimize the potential release of pol-
lutants.

BIODEGRADABLE - Denotes a substance that can be broken down into simpler substances by the
action of living organisms, especially bacteria and fungi.

BUFFER ZONE - Zone surrounding a specific ecological area and having such composition that it
protects that ecological area from encroachment and disturbance.

CONSERVATION - Denotes the -management of the environment in such a way as to ensure adequate
supplies of natural resources for. future generations.

DIVERSITY - A term which refers, collectively, to all species, subspecies, distinctive populations, and
genetic varients of plants and animals,.within their natural habitats, and to the communities and
ecosystems into which they are organized.

DRAINAGE BASIN - The part of the surface of earth that is occupied by a drainage system, which
consists of a surface stream or a body of impounded surface water together with all tributary surface
streams and bodies of impounded water.

EMISSION - The total amount of a solid, liquid or gaseous pollutant emitted into the atmosphere from a
given source in a given time.

ENDANGERED SPECIES - A species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of
its range.

ENVIRONMENT - The forces and conditions that surround and influence living and non-living things.

EUTROPIUCATION - The process occurring in lakes where an increase in available plant nutrients is
accompanied by an increase in the growth of aquatic plants.

FINFISH - True fish, as opposed to shellfish, member of the Class Pisces which includes true fishes
(elasmibranchs excluded) having bony exoskeleton, paired fins and operculum covering the gills.

FLOOD PRONE Those areas of land adjacent to surface watet bodies which are subject to flooding,
generally during periods of heavy rains.

HABITAT - The physical area where an organism lives.

HIGH-LEVEL RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL - Denotes the highly radioactive material resulting from
the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel, including liquid waste produced directly in reprocessing and any
solid material derived from such liquid waste that contains fission products in sufficient concentration;
and any other highly radioactive material determined by the federal government as requiring per-
manent isolation.

INDIGENOUS - Native and original to the region.,

INFRASTRUCTURE - The,public service system upon which most economic activity depends in a
highly industrialized economy.

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT - Denotes the process which involves the utilization of the
proper control procedures to fit a particular situation, requiring a knowledge of the biotic and abiotic
factors affecting the dynamics of populations and reasonably accurate methods of predicting population
trends.

LOW FLOW The lower part of the cumulative frequency curves showing the average period of time
specific daily flows are equaled or exceeded.

LOW-LEVEL RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL - Denotes radioactive waste that is neither high-level
waste nor transuranic waste, nor spent nuclear fuel, nor by-product material, as defined by the Atomic
Energy Act of 1954 as amended; and is classified by the federal government as luw level waste,
consistent with existing law, but does not include waste generated as a result of atomic energy defense
activities of the federal government, as defined in Public Uw 96-573, or federal research and de-
velopment activities.

MULTIPLE USE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - The application of scientific methods and techniques to
decision-making concerning the harmoneous use of land for more than one purpose, i.e. grazing of
livestock, wildlife protection, recreation, watershed, and timber production, not necessarily the com-
bination of uses that will yield the highest economic return or greatest unit output.

NON-ATTAINMENT - The failure to reach, achieve, accomplish a specific goal, objective or desired
state.

NON-POINT SOURCE POLLUTION - Those sources of pollution that are diffuse in both origin and in
time and points of discharge, and depend heavily on weather conditions such as rainstorms Or snowmelt.

OLD FOREST STANDS - Denotes a small subset of all timber olde r than the culmultive of mean
annual incremenL

OPEN SPACE - Denotes use of land for agriculture, parks, natural'areas, forests, camping, fishing,
wetland preservation, wildlife habitat, reservoirs, hunting, golfing, boating, swimming, snowmobiling,
sanitary landfill, historic and scenic preservation and other uses.

OZONE - A modification of oxygen gas produced usually by'a silent electric discharge in air or oxygen.

POLLUTE - To make make unclean or impure.

POTABLE WATER SUPPLY - Water free from impurities in amounts sufficient to cause disease or
other harmful physiological effects, with the minimum or maximum bacteriological, physical, and
chemical composition as defined by the applicable laws and regulations of the Connecticut Department
of Health Services.

PRESERVATION - Denotes the protection of nature from commercial exploitation to prolong its use for
recreation, watershed protection and scientific study.

RECLAMATION - The processes by which seriously disturbed land surfaces are stabilized against the
hazards of water and wind erosion.

RECYCLING - Denotes the reuse or recovered resources in manufacturing, agriculture, power pro-
duction or other processes.

RENEWABLE - Denotes resources that involve organic growth and reproduction or because they are
relatively quickly recycled in nature, as in the case of water in the hydrologic cycle.

RESOURCE RECOVERY - Denotes the processing of solid wastes in such a way as to produce materials
or energy which may be used in manufacturing, agriculture, or other processes.

RIVERINE - Of, resembling, produced by, or relating to a river-, situated on or near a riverbank.

SCENIC ROADS - A highway or portion of ahighway which is free of intensive commercial traffic
and meets certain aesthetic criteria as determined by Connecticut State Statutes.

SPECIES - A group of similar organisms whose members can breed with one another to produce fertile
offspring.

STEWARDSI-HP - The administration of the goods or duties entrusted to one's care.

SUSTAINED YIELD MANAGEMENT - Denotes the forestry practice where the annual cut volume is
close to the annual growth of the forests as a whole.

THREATENED SPECIES - Any species which is likely to become an endangered species within the
foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.

TOXIC - Of or relating to a poisonous substance which by chemical action and at low dosage can kill or
injure living organisms.

WASTELOAD ALLOCATION - The water quality analyses performed to establish maximum daily
pollutant limits for a wastewater discharge or a group of discharges entering a water quality limited
segment.

WETLANDS - Denotes land, including submerged land, which consists of any of the soil types
designated as poorly drained, very poorly drained, alluvial, and flood plain by the National Cooperative
Soils Survey, as may be amended from time to time, of the Conservation Service of the United States
Department of Agriculture.

ABBREVIATED LISTING OF ENVIRONMENTAL PLANS AND POLICIES

A Marine Resources Management Plan for the State of Connecticut, State of Connecticut, Department
of Environmental Protection. 1984.

A Policies Plan for the Conservation and Development of Connecticut, Revision of 1987-1992, State of
Connecticut, Office of Planning and Management. 1987.

Automated Flood Warning in Connecticut: A Master Plan, State of Connecticut, Department of
Environmental Protection. 1985.

ConnectkW Hazardous Waste Management Plan 1985-2005, Connecticut Hazardous Waste Man-
agement Service. 1986.

Interim Plan for the Disposal of Dredge Material from Long Island Sound, State of Connecticut,
Department of Environmental Protection. 1980.

Model Municipal Harbor Management Plan, State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental
Protection. 1986.

Oil Spill Contingency Guide, State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection. 1984.

Plan for Ma naging Connecticut's Forest Resources, State of Connecticut, Department of Environ-
mental Protection. 1986.

Salmon Restoration Plan, State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection. 1985.

Section 406 Hazard Mitigation Implementation Measures, State of Connecticut, Department of En-
vironmental Protection. 1983; updated 1985.

Solid Waste Management Plan: Municipal Solid Waste-Volume 1, State of Connecticut, Department of
Environmental Protection. 1983; revised 1985.

Solid Waste Management Plan: Regional Solid Waste Recycling Plan-Volume II, State of Connecticut,
Department of Environmental Protection. 1987.

State Impementation Plan: Air Quality, State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection.
1972; major amendments 1979, 1981 and 1982.

State-wide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, State of Connecticut, Department of Environ-
mental Protection. 1979; updated 1983 and 1987.

State-wide Long Range Plan for the Management of Water Resources of the State, State of Con-
necticut, Department of Environmental Protection. Draft 1987.

The Connecticut Coastal Management Program, State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental
Protection. 1980.

Water Quality Management Plan, State of Connecticut, Department of Environmental Protection. 1986.

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