BOSTON — The state awarded Berkshire Clean, Cold, Connected Partnership $225,784 to expand regional capacity to deliver nature-based climate solutions, accelerate the removal of aquatic barriers, and restore connected cold-water habitat for native fish.

 

The grant was part of Healey?Driscoll Administration's announcement of over $1 million in grants to six regional restoration partnerships that help communities restore rivers and wetlands, reduce flooding, improve water-quality, and strengthen climate resilience across Massachusetts. 

 

The Konkapot River Restoration Project led by the Berkshire Clean, Cold and Connected Partnership and Trout Unlimited will continue work to reconnect the river to its floodplain and improve cold?water habitat. Planned actions include installing large wood structures and regrading select floodplain areas to reduce flood risks, restore natural river processes, and enhance habitat quality in this high?priority cold?water system. 

 

The Berkshire Clean, Cold, Connected Partnership unites organizations, agencies, and communities to strengthen aquatic health and climate resilience in the Hoosic, Housatonic, and Farmington River watersheds encompassing 32 municipalities in Western Massachusetts. 

 

"Communities across Massachusetts are leading important restoration projects, and we're proud to give them the tools and support they need to succeed," said Governor Maura Healey. "These partnerships will help protect neighborhoods from flooding, restore wildlife habitat and create healthier rivers and wetlands across our state." 

 

Through the Department of Fish & Game's (DFG) Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) Partnerships Program, the funding will support three existing and three new partnerships that work directly with cities, towns, and local organizations to develop and advance locally led projects.

 

DER's Regional Restoration Partnerships Program expands regional capacity by providing support, technical expertise, and project development assistance to nonprofit organizations and Regional Planning Agencies across the state. These regional partners help municipalities identify high?priority restoration projects, secure funding, navigate permitting, and restore rivers, wetlands, and floodplains in ways that improve habitat for wildlife, protect clean water, and reduce flood risks.  

 

By investing in regional capacity, the program helps communities complete restoration projects, build long-term local capacity, and ensures every region of Massachusetts has the support needed to protect and restore its rivers, wetlands, and coastal systems.