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Commission reviews river access, low water, invasive weeds and eco-harvester options
Summary
Members reported sandbars and low flows that obstructed canoe access, noted limited herring migration this year and discussed mechanical removal of milfoil/phragmites with an eco-harvester; staff will evaluate staging sites and permit constraints before proceeding.
Commission members reported multiple obstructions along the run: extensive sandbars near Clark Street Brook and Wareham Street limited kayak access and prompted discussion of where heavy equipment could be placed to remove sediment and invasive vegetation.
"I was up there 2 weeks ago in my kayak, and I could just barely get through going upstream," said Unidentified Speaker 1, describing limited upstream passage and photos of long sand deposits. Members noted Totten Water Department removed two dam boards on Dec. 3 to increase flow, which improved access in some sections.
The group distinguished between milfoil (machine-cuttable) and phragmites (requires heavier equipment). Unidentified Speaker 4 explained technical constraints: the eco-harvester cannot clear under the railroad bridge (52 inches clearance) and would need staging/dump sites for harvested weeds; Trisha has been asked to request access/permits and to explore the Pumpkin Patch and Bridge Street plots as possible disposal sites. "I don't think it's gonna work" under the railroad bridge, said Unidentified Speaker 4.
Members raised timing concerns for any larger dam or culvert actions; the Nature Conservancy has discussed the possibility of dropping Basquil Dam but any action would depend on water levels and inter-agency approvals. The commission agreed to continue site studies, contact landowners for access and coordinate with the Department of Marine Fisheries and the Totten Water Department before scheduling mechanical removal.
Next steps: staff to follow up on potential staging/dump sites, seek permits and river access approvals, and report back with a feasibility plan and cost estimate.
