FALMOUTH- Governor Charlie Baker has announced a state grant of $70,000 to restore the Lower Coonamessett River in Falmouth in an effort to provide opportunities for river restoration and climate preparedness.
The Coonamessett River is one of the largest rivers on Cape Cod, and once harbored a significant herring run. This run was significantly degraded through a long history of land use for the purposes of agriculture.
In addition, obsolete dams and a deteriorated road-stream crossing now impede river herring as they migrate upstream to spawn in Coonamessett Pond.
The project to resolve these issues will result in removal of two unwanted earthen dams, installation of a new fish-friendly and climate-ready crossing at John Parker Road, as well as restoration of 4600 linear feet of in-stream river habitat and 56 acres of former cranberry bog.
These actions will provide improved access for river herring to 158 acres of spawning habitat in Coonamessett Pond, restore natural riparian and wetland habitat, and enhance public access in an important Town-owned conservation area.
By JOHN BONDAREK, CapeCod.com NewsCenter
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