Naturally Natchaug

Naturally Natchaug is a watershed-based initiative supporting the long-term protection of the Natchaug River watershed through collaboration, education, and proactive planning. The initiative is grounded in the Natchaug Healthy Watershed Protection Plan, an EPA-funded effort developed with municipalities, state agencies, conservation organizations, and local stakeholders to prevent degradation of high-quality waters while balancing conservation and growth.

The Natchaug River watershed—draining approximately 164 square miles across eight northeastern Connecticut communities—was identified by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection as an eligible “healthy watershed” due to its limited development, extensive forest and wetland cover, and high water quality. Naturally Natchaug works to maintain these conditions by promoting science-based, non-regulatory approaches that reduce pollution risks, protect drinking water supplies, and support resilient ecosystems.

Through the Natchaug River Healthy Watershed Advisory Board, Naturally Natchaug brings together municipal representatives, agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community members to coordinate implementation of watershed protection strategies, advance education and outreach, and encourage local action that sustains clean water and quality of life throughout the region.