Our Executive Director Kate Dzikiewicz recently wrote an article for the Greenwich Sentinel on the important role Greenwich’s trees play in protecting the health of its beaches and the Long Island Sound.
Byram Beach has experienced 118 bacteria-related closures between 2015 and 2025, and its sheltered location makes it harder for polluted water to clear. During rainstorms, runoff from roads, roofs, parking lots, and sidewalks carries pollutants such as oil, pesticides, fertilizers, pet waste, and sediment into storm drains and waterways. Trees help reduce this pollution by intercepting rainfall, allowing water to soak into the ground through their roots, absorbing certain contaminants before they reach nearby waters.
Byram and Chickahominy have some of Greenwich’s highest population densities and lowest levels of tree canopy, making the preservation of mature trees especially important. Although the Greenwich Tree Conservancy is working to expand tree cover through its public tree planting program and Byram Branches initiative, limited planting space and continued tree removal during construction present challenges. The article encourages Byram property owners to consider the broader community benefits of mature trees before removing them. Protecting and planting trees today helps support cleaner water, healthier beaches, and a more resilient coastline for future generations.
Read the full story in the Greenwich Sentinel.