Riverbank Revival at Larkin Dam Site

When: Tuesday, April 7 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Where: Meet in the Parking Lot at 12 Kent Way, Newbury, MA 01922
What: Volunteer tree and shrub planting along the Parker River at the site of the Larkin Dam Removal
Who: Hosted by a collaborative project team including the Town of Newbury, Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration, Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, Ipswich River Watershed Association, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

About the Event

In fall 2025, the Larkin Dam on the Parker River was removed, reopening the river for fish, restoring natural flow, and reducing flood risks. Now comes the next chapter: healing the riverbanks.

Join us for a hands-on volunteer day to plant 1,000 live stakes of native dogwood and willow shrubs along the Parker River. These plantings will stabilize the riverbank, improve water quality, and create vital habitat as the river continues its recovery.

Volunteer Schedule

Meet in parking lot for orientation at 10am

Why It Matters

This work builds on a major restoration effort that:

• Restored fish passage for diadromous and resident species
• Improved water quality and river health
• Reconnected natural sediment movement
• Reduced flood hazard
• Removed aging, unsafe infrastructure
  

Come lend a hand, get your boots muddy, and help the Parker River write its comeback story.

Do you want to bring a group of your coworkers, colleagues, club members, family and/or friends? Let us know if you have a group! Email us to coordinate.