April 5, Volunteer day at Deerfiled River

DWRA:

• Protect and monitor water quality: Our program includes Spring testing at 12 sites for pH, alkalinity, temperature and dissolved oxygen, and Summer testing at 11 sites for bacteria to assess the safety of recreational waters. Annual river clean-ups with other organizations such as the Connecticut River Source to Sea Consortium.
• Protect and monitor wildlife habitat and wetlands: We surveyed more than 20 marshes in the watershed for frogs and toads and waterbirds (grebes, rails, herons, and more). This work documents the diversity of little known wildlife communities in the watershed. See newsletter and final report.
• Protect open space to safeguard habitat, natural features, water quality and scenic beauty. We sponsored a regional Open Space Forum and are working to cooperate on programs with the Franklin Region Council of Governments and the Trustees of Reservation.
• Be an active local partner in the implementation of the Deerfield River Settlement Agreement: We correspond and meet with the other Agreement signers and participate in negotiations around new threats to the river, and cultivate a good working relationship with the power company.
• Support the implementation of the State's Deerfield River Watershed Team Management Plan: We are active members of the Team and assist in educational programs as well as provide information as needed.
• Improve watershed stewardship by the public through education and recreational opportunities; for example at the annual Riverfest in Shelburne Falls and at the forums and conferences we sponsor and organize; and maintenance of an eight-mile portion of the Mahican-Mohawk trail (Deerfield to Shelburne).
• Encourage watershed/environmental education in local schools. We sponsor a mini-grant program for watershed schools.