The Mattabesset River Watershed Association

The Mattabesset River Watershed is a valuable natural resource that spreads across fifteen Connecticut towns and drains into the Connecticut River.



First Cromwell Riverport Festival, September 1997.

Our Mission...

...is to protect and preserve the waters and riparian habitat in the Mattabesset River Watershed for the benefit of present and future generations.


What Will We Do?


  • sponsor river and streams clean-ups and other improvement projects.
  • increase public access and recreational opportunities.
  • sponsor public involvement and education activities to increase awareness of the river's values and problems.
  • work with town officials to reduce the impact of polluted runoff to streams and rivers.
  • encourage watershed towns to better manage this shared resource.
  • ABOUT US

    The Mattabesset River Watershed Association (MRWA) is dedicated to the protection and preservation of the Mattabesset River Watershed.  This watershed provides many recreational opportunities and habitat for a broad range of flora and fauna.  This large drainage basin is part of the Connecticut River Watershed and influences the water quality of the major river.

    Unfortunately, the Mattabesset River is polluted.  It may look clean, but data collected by the Connecticut River Watch Program has shown otherwise.  High levels of fecal coliform bacteria make it unsafe to swim in.  High levels of nutrients promote excessive growth and decay of plants that deplete the river of oxygen necessary for fish and other river critters to survive.

    In response to the watershed's degradation, a group of concerned individuals formed MRWA.  This non-profit organization was incorporated in March 1997.  The board members represent most of the towns in the watershed.  The association organizes monitoring, clean-up, educational, and recreational activities.  The organization also collects and distributes valuable information about the watershed to towns and other interested parties.  The success of the association is attributable to dedicated people, cooperation between the organization and government officials, and volunteers.

    You can contact the association at the following address:

    Mattabesset River Watershed Association
    PO Box 7174
    Kensington, CT  06037
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