History

In 1987, a group of citizens who were concerned about the continual degradation of the 770-acre Great Salt Pond – one of Block Island’s most significant natural features – formed the Committee for the Great Salt Pond (CGSP) to work for its protection. In just four years, the CGSP had more than 400 members, approximately half of the island’s total population.

The CGSP advocates for appropriate land use around the Pond’s fragile coastal features and has established a legal defense fund to ensure the enforcement of important coastal management regulations.

Today, the CGSP continues to be the leader in protecting the Great Salt Pond and its watershed.

Funding

Individual contributions, annual membership dues, special events, program grants. The CGSP is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, and therefore your contributions are tax-deductible as applicable by law. Your donations help to support:

Watershed Quality: Over the years, the CGSP has been testing the water in the pond. In fact, we have one of the longest-running water test databases in the country. The CGSP follows the stringent guidelines set up by the University of Rhode Island Watershed Watch Program. This program costs approximately $10,000 per year.

Funding: The CGSP makes every effort to keep its operating expenses to a minimum. All board members serve on a strictly volunteer basis. However, there are some expenses necessary for the organization to function, such as maintaining equipment, insurance and outreach.

Board of Directors

Cheryl Moore, President
Cindy Pappas, Vice President
Bob Greenlee, Treasurer
Trudy O’Toole, Secretary
Dana Chryst
George Davis
Henry duPont
Ed Hayde
Bruce Johnson
Andy Korfin
Mary Najmy
Eric Reimer
Sven Risom
Lara Andrea Taber