Greenfield, MA — This year, the Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) is aiming to complete nine river restoration projects across all four Connecticut River states – NH, VT, MA & CT. These projects will restore natural river flow, improve wildlife habitat, and protect clean water. They will also pump more than $2 million into local economies and local businesses like plant nurseries, tree planting crews, construction crews, engineering and design firms, and more.
CRC’s river restoration projects include:
Streambank stabilization with large wood in Lisbon, NH;
Dam removal and culvert upgrade already complete in Perkinsville, VT;
Dam removal at Magic Mountain in Londonderry, VT;
Habitat improvements with large wood additions in Windham, VT;
Two berm removals reconnecting the Green River to its floodplain in VT;
Streambank stabilization with large wood in Colrain, MA;
Streambank stabilization & culvert upgrade in Colrain, MA;
Living shoreline in Fenwick, CT.
“We always say that a healthy environment and healthy economy go hand in hand, and it couldn’t be any more true right now,” says Ron Rhodes, River Steward for CRC. “We’re thrilled that our river restoration work can help boost the local economies during these difficult times. And we are proud of the partnerships we have been able to forge over the past decade that have resulted in nearly 350 miles of stream being restored and opened to fish passage.”
David Sagan, Private Lands Biologist with the US Fish & Wildlife Service notes, “Each time we remove an old dam, replace a bridge or culvert in the Connecticut River watershed, it has far-reaching benefits to the wildlife and people that depend on it. We are pleased to be a part of the team helping to remove a dam.”
“NorthWoods is proud to work alongside the Connecticut River Conservancy to help our local rivers,” said Meghann Carter, Conservation Science Director at NorthWoods Stewardship Center. "We are so glad for this opportunity to get back out into the field."
In addition to these nine river restoration projects, CRC and partners planted more than 6,400 trees this past spring and has 13 more tree planting projects lined up for this fall. Ben Machin, Partner and Forester at Redstart, noted that “we greatly appreciate the chance to work with CRC to get these important restoration projects completed. Nothing expresses hopefulness like planting trees and shrubs.”
Since 1952, Connecticut River Conservancy has been the voice for the Connecticut River watershed, from source to sea. They collaborate with partners across four states to protect and advocate for your rivers and educate and engage communities. They bring people together to prevent pollution, improve habitat, and promote enjoyment of your river and its tributary streams. Healthy rivers support healthy economies. To learn more about CRC, or to make a contribution to help protect your rivers, visit ctriver.org.