RIVER CURRENT
Your source for the latest news, updates, & events.
Natick Completes MEPA Process: A Step Closer To Removing The Charles River Dam
Exciting news! The Town of Natick has completed the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) process and received its MEPA certificate for removing the Charles River Dam at South Natick.
ACTION ALERT: Write to MEPA showing support for the removal of the South Natick Dam.
The Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) Office is allowing community members to show their support for the removal of the South Natick Dam, which was rated to be in “poor condition” by the MA Office of Dam Safety. We need your help demonstrating community support for removing the Charles River Dam in South Natick.
Natick Select Board Votes for Dam Removal & River Restoration!
We are so pleased to report that Natick Select Board voted 4-1 in favor of dam removal and restoration of a free-flowing Charles River for future generations.
CPA on the Ballot in Natick
The Community Preservation Act is a smart growth tool that helps communities preserve open space and historic sites, create affordable housing, and develop outdoor recreation facilities.
One Step Closer to a Free-Flowing Charles in Natick
Another win in Natick! The Charles River Dam Advisory Committee voted 16-2 in favor of spillway removal and restoration of the river.
Natick Dam Removal Update
Natick's Charles River Dam Advisory Committee is deciding on the future of the Charles River Dam in South Natick. At a July 19 meeting, Committee members expressed strong support in favor of dam removal and river restoration.
These fish are critical to New England, and they're disappearing
"A dam in a river is like a blocked artery; it's like a heart attack," said Robert Kearns, a climate resiliency specialist at the Charles River Watershed Association. "It degrades the water quality behind it; reduces the dissolved oxygen which fish rely on to breathe and to live ... and creates a habitat that's better for invasive species."