Restoring the Great Marsh: Transforming Habitats, Strengthening Partnerships

Since 2023, IRWA has been working with NOAA through a cooperative agreement that aims to initiate transformational habitat restoration in the Great Marsh. The agreement has two primary goals: to increase the capacity of the PIE-Rivers Partnership and address a set of priority tidal barriers in the region. 

Hopefully you have noticed our efforts to shine a brighter spotlight on the important restoration work being accomplished by PIE-Rivers partners. With an increased number of events to bring partners together, as well as a more frequent newsletter, we are always trying to improve communication and make sure our restoration work is as efficient and impactful as possible. 

Currently, our active tidal barrier projects are chugging along. The Orchard Street resiliency project in Newbury near the Parker River has an accepted construction bid and could begin as soon as this month.  The Old Hay Street barrier removal in Newbury is actively in the design and permitting process, with the Trustees taking the lead on that effort. And the Old Essex Road removal on the Castle Neck River is nearly complete with permitting and should be implemented during 2025. Additionally, we will have conceptual design reports for 21 more priority barriers in the Great Marsh region!

All of these projects require the support of PIE-Rivers Partners like the Towns of Ipswich, Essex, and Newbury, the Trustees, MA Division of Marine Fisheries, and more. These projects will all go a long way in furthering the restoration goals of the partnership.

Thanks to Neil Shea, Restoration Program Director at Ipswich River Watershed Association for writing this blog!