Quinapoxet Dam Removal, West Boylston, MA
EBTJV/FWS award: $50,000
Partner funds: $2.3 M
Organization: Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA)
Massachusetts Water Resources Authority is partnering with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game’s Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) to remove the Quinapoxet Dam in West Boylston, MA.
The Quinapoxet Dam is owned by the DCR Division of Water Supply Protection (MADWSP), and was constructed in 1905 as part of the Wachusett Reservoir construction project. The existing dam is a stone masonry structure that is 135 feet long and 9 feet high. A fishway was retrofitted in the 1930’s and is presently in deteriorated condition; this type of fishway structure is poorly suited for Brook Trout and other species residing in the reservoir.
“MWRA is excited to take on this ecological restoration effort that will strengthen the resilience of coldwater fish populations inhabiting the Quinapoxet River Watershed and enhance public access to the River,” - Rebecca Weidman, MWRA Deputy COO.
Removal of the Quinapoxet Dam will provide upstream fish access to the Wachusett Reservoir where existing populations of Brook Trout and Landlocked Salmon are considered to be genetically isolated as the Dam restricts vital migratory patterns. The project will make 35 miles of river accessible to fish and will also restore 0.2 miles of upstream habitat and 1 acre of riparian habitat. An ADA compliant path and platform will also be built on the river bank and interpretive signage will be installed. Associated benefits include restoring river processes for sediment and organic matter transport, restoring bordering vegetated wetlands and riverine habitat, eliminating safety concerns and liability issues related to the deteriorating dam, and enhancing public access to a popular fishing and recreation area.
This project should be completed by the summer of 2025, with post-construction monitoring to continue for two years.
“MWRA is excited to take on this ecological restoration effort that will strengthen the resilience of coldwater fish populations inhabiting the Quinapoxet River Watershed and enhance public access to the River,” said Rebecca Weidman, Deputy Chief Operating Officer of MWRA.
The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority provides wholesale water and sewer services to 3.1 million people and more than 5,500 large industrial users in 61 metropolitan Boston communities.
Link to project information from MWRA.
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