PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • September 2, 2023
Willard Beach is a special place in our community. South Portland takes its stewardship role very seriously. We share the water quality concerns expressed by residents. The city participates in the Maine Healthy Beaches program to ensure that the water at Willard Beach is safe for swimming and to notify visitors via sign and flag systems when it is not. The watershed is densely developed, consisting of 40% impervious surfaces. There is less natural landscape to absorb potential pollutants. During significant rain events, pollutants such as animal waste, lawn chemicals and many others are discharged to the beach water via the stormwater system. Nearly $650,000 has been invested in watershed restoration projects. If the water quality flag at the main entrance is yellow or orange, contact with the water is not advised. If it’s green, it’s safe for swimming. ~ Shara Dee, South Portland’s communications officer, and Fred Dillon, stormwater coordinator