Permitting dam removal in Massachusetts:how mussels fit in to the regulatory framework
Beth Lambert, Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration, Boston, Massachusetts;
Peter Hazelton, Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, West Boylston, Massachusetts
Misty-Anne Marold, Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, West Boylston, Massachusetts.



Abstract:

With its long-standing tradition of home-rule and protection of river and wetland resources, Massachusetts has one of the most complex regulatory frameworks in New England. As a result, each dam removal project, regardless of size, impact, or benefit, triggers numerous regulatory thresholds requiring many permits. The presence of potential habitat for state-listed species such as freshwater mussels requires dam removal proponents to coordinate with the MA Natural Heritage Program (NHESP) before permitting begins. This presentation 1) describes the permitting process for a typical dam removal project in Massachusetts; and 2) outlines how the regulations guide dam removal proponents to coordinate with NHESP early in the design and permitting process in order to avoid impacts to species protected under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA). Standard protocols developed for rare mussel surveys, habitat assessments and animal translocation serve as minimum guidelines for projects with rare species, but each project is assessed independently to minimize risk to the resource. We present a background to the MESA review process as well as highlight conservation strategies from a number of case studies on current projects.

Biography:

Beth Lambert manages the River Restoration Program for the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (DER). DER's mission is to restore and protect the rivers and streams of Massachusetts for the benefit of people and wildlife. The River Restoration Program has worked with federal, state, local, and NGO partners to remove more than 30 dams over the last 10 years.

Peter Hazelton is the Aquatic Ecologist, and Misty-Anne Marold is a Senior Environmental Review Biologist for the Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife. NHESP is responsible for the conservation and protection of hundreds of animal and plant species protected under MESA. The program protects state-listed species through biological surveys and research, protection and restoration of habitat, endangered species regulation and environmental education.