In response to the Christopher Mullaney letter, “Shellfish make river cleaner,” (Sept. 26), concerning a proposed oyster and shellfish farm in the Niantic River. Contrary to what he writes: opposition to the proposal isn't a “not in my backyard” issue. There is broad opposition from the business community, safety officers, and town authorities, many of whom don't live on the Niantic River.

Their opposition is for a myriad of factual and scientific reasons, a question about the legality of the process for informing the public not the least of them.

Cleaner water in the river could be a benefit of this experiment, but this is only an experiment. The honest among us understand that the only entity that would realize a financial benefit will be the shellfish farm applicant. Not one cent of tax on profit made by this proposal would be seen by either Waterford or East Lyme. Still, that's the least of the concerns.

It seems Mullaney believes he is among those educated about shellfish. That may be, however all residents should all be educated about this proposal. I direct readers to the publicly posted decision on the proposal of the Waterford Harbor Management Commission dated Sept. 14. The facts are what will best protect the Niantic River.

Christina Jagel

East Lyme