“After a decades-long effort to restore the Parker River, the Healey-Driscoll Administration, the Town of Newbury, and federal and nonprofit partners today celebrated the successful removal of the obsolete Larkin Dam and the restoration of a free-flowing Parker River.
This marks a major milestone for river health, public safety, and climate resilience, reconnecting more than a mile of upstream habitat for migratory and resident fish while reducing flood risks.
“Restoring free flowing rivers is one of the most effective actions we can take to strengthen biodiversity and climate resilience in Massachusetts,” said Department of Fish & Game Commissioner Tom O’Shea. “By removing the Larkin Dam, we’re reopening habitat for native fish, revitalizing the Parker River ecosystem, and advancing the Commonwealth’s commitment to safeguarding fish and wildlife and habitats they depend upon. This project shows what’s possible when partners come together to let rivers be rivers again.”
Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries photo.…