Article 42 seeks $35,793 to replace outdated and failing water quality monitoring equipment used by the Department of Natural Resources. The funding is critical for the ongoing health assessment of Harwich’s numerous ponds and the safety of recreational waters.

CPC Chair Kathy Green explained that monitoring is the first step to understanding pond health and determining where interventions may be needed. Beyond pond health, the equipment is vital for the town’s shellfish lab, where it is used for educational demonstrations with students and seasonal interns.

The request has the full support of the Select Board and the Finance Committee. The upgrade is viewed as a necessary maintenance expense to ensure the town has accurate data to manage its aquatic resources.