Templeton chosen for Mass Rivers technical assistance to scope Otter River Pool dam removal

The Town of Templeton has been selected as one of three recipients of the Mass Rivers Alliance Technical Assistance Program to support early-phase work on a proposed dam removal at the Otter River Pool, a town staff member told the Conservation Commission on April 21.

The Conservation Agent said the town’s application was submitted on March 17, 2026, and that Perry Corporation will provide $20,000 in consulting services "for site reconnaissance, project scoping, and the development of a technical memorandum and a starter kit to guide the early stages of this project." The agent said site meetings are likely in May and possibly June.

Why it matters: the assistance covers technical planning and does not require Town funds to pass through municipal accounts, the agent said, describing the award as a "technical assistance" grant that pays the consultant directly. The work is intended to advance public-safety considerations and restore natural stream conditions at the site.

Commission discussion and next steps: commissioners welcomed the selection and the agent said staff will share the award letter and coordinate upcoming site visits with Mass Rivers Alliance and the consultant. The agent noted the award was "a significant step forward" beyond routine permitting and enforcement work and encouraged commissioners to review the consultant materials when available.

No formal vote was required; the commission will consider any permit or environmental filings that follow the technical-assistance phase at future meetings.

The Conservation Agent (staff member) read the award notification to the commission; the email and award letter are available from the conservation office upon request.