OCR Text |
Show omy of system generation; and make low-rate electric power available where it is socially desirable to do so. Flood Control Recurrent floods have been a major problem in the basin. These are destructive not only to the residents of the main valley lands, but also within some of the major tributaries as well. A complete plan would include structures in key tributaries and local protective works on the main stream to pre- vent further heavy losses. As protection against flooding takes place, provision should also be made to guard against the further encroachment of im- provements upon the floodways. Where possible, flood control should be combined with conservation storage of flood waters to assure their maximum utilization to meet regional needs. Recreation Recreation is a major industry in the basin and throughout many parts of New England, especially in the headwater and tidewater areas. Here moun- tains and lakes, rivers and rolling hills, pastures, and beaches, present an ever-changing and en- trancing landscape, in proximity to a large part of our crowded eastern urban population. Full de- velopment therefore calls for special consideration of recreational facilities. Where they cannot be supplied incidentally to other construction, special facilities should be provided. Operation of many reservoir lakes to meet recreation demands there- fore will be essential. Associated with this type of recreation will be parks, scenic trails and drives, camp grounds, in- creased fishing, skiing facilities, and the like. In this basin, as elsewhere in New England, addi- tional public acquisition of lands will be necessary to provide for an extension of forest recreation. Public acquisition would also be needed to permit public access to scenic or otherwise desirable recre- ational areas, such as the shore lines of lakes, rivers, beaches, or fishing grounds, and to permit public boat harbors and other facilities. Recreation in this region also encompasses natural and improved harbors of refuge in the lower river for small boats which may enter from Long Island Sound. Pollution A batement Althoughi steps have been taken to control wastes in the main stem of the river, action is needed to reduce pollution. Many of the tributary streams now are relatively free from industrial or domestic pollution, but new industries could quickly create serious situations. Valuable game fish have been and are being destroyed by industrial pollution, and restoration of commercial fisheries is deterred by it. In the lower basin, industrial pollution of surface waters is one factor causing industry to turn to greater use of ground water. Pollution hazards are at their greatest during periods of low water flow. Full development of the basin will provide for treat- ment of all raw sewage, the reduction of harmful industrial wastes, and the release of sufficient water during low flows to prevent objectionable pollution. This will also reduce salinity in the lower river at low flow periods. Water Supply Surface waters are today the main source of in- dustrial and municipal water supply. However, with diffusion and expansion of industry and de- mands for a clean water supply, it is to be expected that industry will give increasing attention to ground water. Elements of a plan include greater use of ground water supplies under such local con- trols as will insure its continuance without deple- tion. They also envisage increased dedication of watershed areas to domestic water supply, but with adjustment to other uses in a manner conforming to the best principles of multiple-purpose develop- ment of the basin. Watershed Management Watershed management is essential to a full plan. Such management is needed not only to maintain the quality and quantity of the water resources, but also to increase the productivity and value of the land resources as well. It is particularly important in areas producing excessive runoff and erosion, and on those drainage areas supplying domestic water. Management will provide for more equitable con- ditions of water flow and reduction of sediments. Elements of a full plan include a shift in land use toward forests and improved pastures, better prac- tices on fields and pastures to prevent erosion, more intensive forest management, and greater public ownership of forest lands in headwater areas. Fishery Resources Migratory fish once were an important resource. Elements of a complete plan for the basin will 516 |