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State releases long-term plan to protect Mystic River area
A long-term plan to preserve and improve usability of publicly
owned green space along the Mystic River was released yesterday by the
Department of Conservation and Recreation.The
DCR aims to improve recreational uses of the river banks, improve the
river's ecological health, implement a pathway system along both sides
of the waterway's banks, and protect wildlife habitats, according to
the report.
The document, called a
master plan, was three years in the making and encompasses studies of
wildlife, site features, and current usage of the approximately 370
acres of preservation land.
The plan is the first major examination of the land's use since
the 1970s, according to the document, and lays out a framework for the
area for years to come.
"By making
preservation plans for this watershed, we ensure that its recreational
space, wildlife habitat, and vital natural resources are protected for
generations to come," said Governor Deval Patrick in a statement
released by the DCR.
The plan was presented to
the Mystic River Watershed Steering Committee yesterday, the DCR said,
a group convened in 2008 composed of 22 local stakeholders, including
nonprofit community groups and local, state, and federal governmental
agencies, the DCR said.
Ian Bowles,
Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary for Patrick, said the plan
will help urban residents connect with nature and access recreational
activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and hiking.
"This plan will make DCR's Mystic River Reservation a gem among state park properties," Bowles said.
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