Siltation

One means of maintaining a balance of nutrients and reducing bacteria levels, is to encourage proper tidal flushing.  Areas of the ponds which are poorly flushed become stagnant and concentrate contaminants.  Areas closer to the breachways, turn over with fresh ocean water and are generally healthier. A major problem affecting the four breached salt ponds is the build up of sand forming tidal deltas.  The delta formations restrict flow in and out of the ponds, resulting in the concentration of nutrients and other contaminants.  Reduced flow can contribute to hypoxic conditions by allowing nutrients to build up, and also by limiting the input of oxygenated ocean water

Progress is underway to repair and maintain the breachways, but is delayed in some cases by politics.  Dredging in Charlestown Breachway was completed in 2006, and Point Judith dredging is underway.  The fate of repairing Quonochontaug and Weekapaug Breachways is uncertain at this time. SPC feels that dredging the narrow channel feeding Green Hill pond could help reduce contamination problems there.