Talbot Mills Dam Removal news and updates from OARS.

ACTION ALERT

HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD

OARS, together with state, federal, and other non-governmental partners, is working towards the removal of the Talbot Mills Dam in Billerica.

The first stage in the permitting process is to submit an Expanded Environmental Notification Form (EENF) that fully describes the project to the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) office.

The EENF has been filed, and we encourage you to review the documents posted in the July 10, 2023 edition of the Environmental Monitor (EEA #16731, Talbot Mills Dam Removal) and submit comments here.

Comments on the Talbot Mills Dam removal project will be welcome in writing on or before August 9, 2023. 

Scroll down to EEA # 16731, “Talbot Mills Dam Removal,” and click “COMMENT,” to the right. You can sign in or submit comments as a “guest.” You can also attach documents, such as a letter on letterhead. 

We appreciate you taking the time to submit comments on this critical project for our watershed.

TWO PUBLIC MEETINGS ARE COMING UP

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) documents with clear descriptions of the project and its potential impacts, along with responses to questions raised by the public to date, are available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Khmer are available on the project website.

The Talbot Mills Dam project proposes to remove the existing dam to restore migratory fish passage and connectivity for resident aquatic species, decommission aging infrastructure, eliminate ongoing maintenance and repair obligations, reduce flood hazards and increase resilience, and improve water quality, habitat, and natural river functions. Please explore the project's StoryMap, which helps explain the water quality issues, underlying geology, and downstream impacts.

Check the project website anytime for recent press, public meeting information, timelines, and FAQs in four languages (bottom of webpage).

Stay informed, sign up for project updates, and share it with friends and neighbors. 

JULY 29th | 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM | North Billerica

JOIN US FOR A FUN DAY OUT IN NORTH BILLERICA TO HELP REMOVE INVASIVE WATER CHESTNUT FROM THE CONCORD RIVER!

These fast-growing aquatic invasives spread rapidly across the river, reducing biodiversity, harming water quality, and impeding recreation. But with your help, we can remove water chestnuts and restore the Concord River ecosystem.

Don't miss out! This fun event is a great way to explore our watershed, meet new friends, and make a difference on our rivers.

Paddle Boston will be generously supplying all canoes, PFDs, and paddles for the event!

Morning Shift: 9:00 AM–12:30 PM

Afternoon Shift: 12:30 PM–4:00 PM

Recommended:

Ages 12 and up

Minors must be accompanied by an adult in the boat

Only two participants per boat

Participants are proficient swimmers

REGISTRATION IS ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVE BASIS