Natural Resources Planning
Westbrook Waterfall, Whately
About Natural Resources Planning
The Natural Resources Planning projects conducted by FRCOG staff typically focus on assessing a particular resource and developing a multi-pronged approach to protecting it. Examples of projects include watershed assessments and plans and groundwater protection bylaws. Other projects focus on innovative technologies and techniques that mitigate impacts to resource areas, particularly water resources. Examples of projects include streambank stabilization and use of Low Impact Development techniques for stormwater management. Natural Resources Planning projects promote sustainable land use practices and raise public awareness of the importance of protecting Franklin County's "green infrastructure". FRCOG staff also provide computerized data analysis and mapping using Geographic Information Systems technology for Natural Resources Planning. This planning work is funded primarily through Federal and State grants.
Current Projects
Connecticut River Watershed Restoration - Innovative bioengineering techniques are being used to stabilize eroding river banks and preserve prime farmland along the Connecticut River.
Orange Riverfront Park: Using Low Impact Development Techniques to Manage Stormwater Runoff Runoff and discharges from stormwater outfalls are the single largest source of pollution responsible for the water quality problems of many of the rivers, streams and lakes in the state. Recent assessment projects conducted for the Millers River watershed have identified stormwater as a major contributor of nonpoint pollution.
Deerfield River Watershed Nonpoint Pollution Assessment The Deerfield River is widely regarded as one of the coldest and cleanest rivers in Massachusetts and attracts many sport-fisherman and whitewater enthusiasts. However, nonpoint source pollution has degraded segments of the mainstem and its major tributaries, and poses a threat to other tributaries in the watershed.
Four Mile Brook Watershed Assessment There is consensus among a diverse group of stakeholders regarding the need for a comprehensive assessment of the Four Mile Brook watershed and the need for innovative approaches to mitigating nonpoint source pollution and for managing growth in the watershed. Efforts have been ongoing over the past several years to build momentum towards this end.
Page Last Updated: March 4, 2009