Addressing in-stream barriers such as undersized culverts and dams is an ongoing restoration priority for IRWA – and we have some good news to report! Over the past year, we have worked on aligning specific priority barriers with funding sources in order to streamline their progress, including the Pond Street culvert upgrade project which was completed in summer of 2022 thanks to funding provided by MA DER and NFWF. With our sights set on 2023, we are excited to begin working with the Town of Boxford on designing and permitting three barrier upgrades on Pye Brook with funding provided by MA EEA’s MVP Program.
Additionally, IRWA recently submitted proposals for two NOAA grants. Both proposals include funding for barrier upgrades and removals, including:
-final designs and permitting for the Ipswich Mills Dam project
-upgraded fish passage at the Willowdale Dam
-new fishway at the Howlett Brook Dam
-full removal of the South Middleton Dam
-full removal of the Old Essex Road crossing of Castle Neck River
-full removal of the Larkin Mill Dam
-upgraded structure at the Orchard Street crossing of Cart Creek
-removal of the old Hay Street crossing of Little River
To find out more about these exciting projects, check out our website or email Neil Shea at [email protected]