We use science, advocacy, and partnerships to improve the water quality of the Neponset River and its tributaries.
Over 300 years of industrialized activity in the Neponset Watershed has created problems for our water, wildlife, and neighborhoods.
Since 1967, when NepRWA was incorporated, we have focused primarily on cleaning up water pollution.
Thanks to the 1972 Clean Water Act, our waterways fare a little better, and we are happy to report that most areas of the Neponset River now meet fishable/swimmable water quality standards much, if not all of the time.
Click here to view NepRWA Water Quality Reports
Stormwater Runoff is a Problem
Despite improvements in water quality, pollutants continue to enter our streams and the River, mostly as polluted stormwater runoff.
Polluted runoff damages our aquatic environments and species, limits the diversity of species that can call our Watershed home, and decreases the quality of life for wildlife and humans.
Working in conjunction with our Watershed communities, through programs such as our Community Water Monitoring Network (CWMN) and our Hotspot Program, we aim to decrease pollutants on the landscape and filter polluted runoff before it degrades adjacent waterways.
To address ongoing and future water quality challenges, we will:
- Stop water pollution caused by aging sewer infrastructure.
- Clean up legacy pollutants.
- Partner with municipalities on programs to reduce stormwater runoff and conserve water.
Our Neponset Stormwater Partnership (NSP) is a regional cooperation and resource-sharing program that allows us to effectively assist our communities with their stormwater cleanup efforts at a lower cost, through economies of scale.
Questions or concerns?
For the CMWN, Hotspot Program, or X-cel Programs, please email NepRWA River Restoration Director, Sean McCanty
For the NSP Program, please email NepRWA Managing Director for Community Resilience, Kerry Snyder
Learn more about our programs
Community Water Monitoring Network (CWMN)
Our volunteer-based CWMN Program provides monthly water quality samples.
Neponset Stormwater Partnership (NSP)
The NSP allows us to help our communities with stormwater cleanup efforts.
X-cel Education Program
Our science staff teaches X-cel members how to collect water samples and data.
Hotspot Program
Our Hotspot Program allows us to solve pollution issues in our local waterways.
Annual EPA Water Quality Report Card
EPA water quality report cards for the Neponset River
Lower Neponset Superfund Designation
Superfund status was designated in March 2022 by the EPA.
Freshwater Fish Advisory
Is the fish that you recently caught safe to eat?
How do I know if the water in my town is clean for swimming, boating, or fishing?
For the most up-to-date information on water quality in your town, check with your local board of health or town website.
While NepRWA monitors water quality in local streams and ponds, the collected data primarily captures trends over time rather than daily fluctuations.
