Ecological Restoration: Importance of Stream Crossing Assessments

Ecological Restoration: The Importance of Stream Crossing Assessments

Culverts, like the one pictured above, are located throughout the watershed at hundreds of intersections of roads and waterways. Stream crossings, including culverts and bridges, allow rivers to flow beneath roads and other infrastructure and provide safe passage for wildlife movement. Healthy, well-functioning crossings are essential for maintaining connected waterways, reducing flooding risk, and protecting habitats.

How do we know if a stream crossing is functioning well? Culvert assessments are a key tool. The North Atlantic Aquatic Connectivity Collaborative (NAACC) has established professional protocols to assess the effectiveness of stream crossings, and maintains a database of results. NRWA staff completed the rigorous training required for certification in three different NAACC modules and are now fully certified to conduct assessments and to train others to become certified. The NRWA trained and engaged over 60 individuals, including many professionals and volunteers in the conservation community, such as members of conservation commissions and state agencies. Since last year, NRWA has offered four rounds of large group training along with several smaller field sessions. Together, we led assessments of over 800 stream crossings, making NRWA the leading contributor to the NAACC database in Massachusetts!

Data is now available for state and local officials, as well as the public, to guide restoration and infrastructure decisions, such as prioritization of projects. Having this information in hand also helps position communities to receive funding through appropriate grants. In addition, certified volunteers have the ability to assess stream crossings in other areas, amplifying the impact of this project beyond the watershed borders.

Thank you to all of the volunteers who participated, and made it possible to accomplish this crucial work.

On ecological restoration projects, the NRWA works closely with the MA Division of Ecological Restoration (MA DER), town officials, conservation partners, and consultants. Stream crossing assessment projects have been funded in part by MA DER and the Nashua, Squannacook, and Nissitissit Rivers Wild & Scenic Stewardship Council.

Questions?

Contact Jessica Veysey Powell, NRWA Water Programs Director, or Utkir Adkhamov, Senior Water Quality and Restoration Associate.