Programs and Projects
Introduction

IRWA directs a series of innovative and interconnected programs that strive for maximum ecosystem benefit, scientific excellence, and community awareness and participation.

Our Education program strives to provide citizens and students in the Ipswich River Watershed with the information and tools they need to preserve the health of their river.

Our innovative Fish & Habitat Restoration program is one of the first-in-the-nation programs of a local watershed group designed to restore a river ecosystem that has been degraded by low flow conditions and habitat fragmentation.

The Greenscapes North Shore program offers a comprehensive guide to environmentally friendly landscaping, workshop series, and discounts on native plants, landscaping consultations, and other goods and services.

Our Policy & Advocacy program strives to ensure that state laws and regulations are protective of river health and that Water Management Act permits do not allocate more water than the river basin can safely yield.

Driven by the energy and expertise of volunteers and partner organizations, our Science & Monitoring program is designed to yield valid data on the health of the Ipswich River and its greater ecosystem.

Our Stormwater Clean-Up program collaborates with watershed communities on projects to clean up polluted stormwater runoff.

Our Stream Teams are groups of citizen volunteers who advocate for their local segment of the Ipswich River Watershed and sponsor local projects and events.

Our Water Conservation program provides a clearinghouse for information on water efficiency practices for municipalities and residents.

A number of Water Friendly Demonstrations projects have been installed across the Ipswich River watershed. For example, native plant gardens, rain gardens, and water-efficient fixtures are being installed at Riverbend through the Keeping Water Local program.

Our Water Wise Communities program provides resources and technical assistance to help municipal officials pursue low-impact development, water conservation, and habitat restoration projects.

Volunteers are the backbone of many of our programs and we are always looking for new volunteers who are interested in getting involved!