Herring River Estuary Restoration Project,Wellfleet, Cape Cod
On August 21, 2020, the Baker-Polito Administration announced $798,500 in state grant funds for four ecological restoration projects in the towns of Plymouth, Mattapoisett, Wellfleet, Truro, and Northampton/Easthampton. The four projects help local partners remove aging dams, restore historic wetlands, and improve floodplain habitat and storage.
Governor Charlie Baker said, “River and wetland restoration projects are an important part of our Administration’s efforts to protect residents, businesses and natural resources from the impacts of climate change. Our administration is proud to collaborate with our federal and local partners on these projects that support local jobs, improve public safety, and increase access to outdoor recreation opportunities.”
Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito said, “By partnering with the federal government, municipalities, conservation organizations, and the private sector, our administration can make more effective investments in restoring and protecting critical environmental resources. These projects will enhance fish and wildlife habitat while boosting economic activity in Massachusetts communities.”
The river and wetland restoration grants are administered by the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Division of Ecological Restoration (DER). DER brings together federal, state, and local agencies and organizations to plan, fund, and implement projects that restore rivers and wetlands while also helping communities adapt to climate change.
Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides said, “By restoring the natural hydrology of our wetlands and floodplains, these projects bolster the Commonwealth’s resilience to climate change and its associated storms and flooding. These grants will improve infrastructure and our environment, providing long-term benefits to our environment and people of Massachusetts.”
Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Ronald Amidon said, “Our Department nurtures strong partnerships to accomplish important ecological restoration goals, as exemplified by these projects. Working with municipalities, non-governmental organizations, and other groups, each participant offers their unique contribution that ultimately leads to success.”
These projects are also designated as DER Priority Projects, making the projects eligible for technical services, including data collection, engineering, design work, permitting, project management and grants. Once completed, the projects will provide significant social, environmental, and economic benefits to the Commonwealth and local communities. Currently, 56 ecological restoration projects throughout the state are designated as Priority Projects.
The grants awarded include:
- Foothills Preserve/West Beaver Dam Brook Restoration Project
Award: $200,000 - Mattapoisett Bogs Restoration Project
Award: $50,000 - Herring River Estuary Restoration Project
Award: $500,000 - Arcadia/Manhan Meadows Floodplain Forest Restoration Project
Award: $48,500