This year, the Surfrider Foundation celebrated its fifth in Connecticut by successfully expanding programs to meet the ever-growing need to protect out coastal environment. These programs are part of Surfrider Foundation’s mission of protecting our beaches, waterways and coastal areas. Programs are implemented by volunteer members of all ages who come from all walks of life and political persuasions. The common bond of these members is their passion for the water and the desire to protect it. The Connecticut Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation has grown to 350+ members from all areas of the state. This widespread network has forged success in an array of programs focusing on education, research, advocacy and action.

Education is a key component in achieving the Chapter’s goals, and this year saw the launch of the third annual Storm Drain Marking Contest. Contestants from grades 6-8 create a design for a storm drain marker alerting the public that what goes in the sewer eventually winds up in our waterways. Winners of the contest then have their design placed on storm drains throughout their town. They also receive a cash prize and their class receives a seminar on the watersheds and the hydrological cycle. This year’s winning design was submitted by Sarah Martin from Eli Terry Jr. Middle School in Terryville, CT.