BOSTON — State Representative Timothy R. Madden of Nantucket announced that Oak Bluffs has received over a $102,000 grant to help address untreated storm water discharges into Oak Bluffs Harbor the installation of a rain garden/modified gravel wetland system.

The Coastal Pollution Remediation Grant Program, which is aimed at improving coastal water quality by reducing or eliminating nonpoint source pollution, is administered by EEA’s Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM).  Nonpoint source pollution, the leading cause of water quality impairment in the nation, occurs when contaminants are picked up by rain water and snow melt and carried over land, in groundwater, or through drainage systems to coastal waters, rivers, wetlands and groundwater. 

Oak Bluffs hopes to specifically protect shellfish from coastal pollution. Other recipients of this year’s grants include the towns of Brewster, Duxbury and Provincetown.

“Maintaining the environmental integrity of our coastal waterways and working to prevent the pollution of these sensitive areas is extremely important,” said Sen. Robert O’Leary. “Each town that received support has shown a dedication to preserving our environmental treasures on the Cape and Islands and I applaud their efforts.”

CZM plans to solicit applications for next year’s grant round in August 2010.

For more information and to obtain an application, visit www.mass.gov/czm/cprgp.htm