WENDELL – The Osgood Brook Restoration/Bowen’s Pond dam removal is among the 12 river and wetland restoration projects across the Commonwealth will be designated Priority Projects through the Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Division of Ecological Restoration (DER).
Through this project, the dam will be removed. As a result, wild Eastern brook trout and other species threatened by the effects of climate change will benefit.
Upon receiving designation, Priority Projects are eligible for technical services, including data collection, engineering, design work, permitting, project management and grants.
“Ecological restoration is an important tool for local stakeholders working to protect and preserve rivers and wetlands across the Commonwealth,” said Governor Charlie Baker, who made the announcement. “In addition to the assistance provided at the local level, the Priority Project Program assists the state in ensuring that environmental assets are able to adapt to the impacts of climate change.”
The new Priority Projects include dam removals, culvert replacements, urban river revitalization, salt marsh restoration, and streamflow restoration. Each project restores healthy habitat while also helping communities prevent storm damage, address aging infrastructure, and improve outdoor recreation.
“Communities and land owners are on the front lines of climate change, and Priority Projects are critical to ensure habitat restoration and climate adaptation,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “Through ongoing collaboration, the Commonwealth will continue to work with local and private partners to restore and protect critical environmental resources.
“The new dam removal, streamflow restoration, and salt marsh restoration projects expand habitat for Eastern brook trout, coastal waterfowl, and many other fish and wildlife species,” said Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Ronald Amidon. “The projects also open up new opportunities for paddling, nature observation, and other kinds of outdoor recreation.”
Once completed, the projects will provide significant social, environmental and economic benefits to the Commonwealth and local communities. Currently, more than 45 active ecological restoration projects throughout the state are designated as Priority Projects.
“Maintaining viable fish stock is dependent on a number of factors, including dam removal,” said State Senator Anne Gobi (D-Spencer), Senate Chair of the Committee on the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture. “I appreciate the partnership between private landowners, local and state environmental groups and agencies to preserve critical habitat and the protection and conservation of species.”