- Division of Ecological Restoration
We are excited to share the record‑setting accomplishments of the Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) and our partners in 2025. This year marked DER’s biggest restoration impact ever. With 21 projects under construction, five dams removed, six culverts replaced, and over 620 river miles reconnected, DER and our partners reached every corner of the Commonwealth.
The 2025 Annual Report highlights how DER is helping advance the Healey‑Driscoll Administration’s biodiversity and climate resilience goals, from the Governor’s $200 million investment in culvert upgrades, to the Mass Ready Act, to the Massachusetts Biodiversity Goals, which position ecological restoration as a core strategy for protecting nature for people and wildlife. Inside the report, readers will find:
- DER’s impact in 2025 by the numbers, including 5 dams removed, 6 culverts replaced, 86 acres of freshwater wetlands restored, 888 culverts assessed, and nearly $7 million awarded to support restoration in 45 communities.
- Project highlights from across Massachusetts, from the Upper Coonamessett River Restoration in Falmouth, to the Konkapot River Restoration in New Marlborough, to the first phase of construction at the Herring River Estuary Restoration, the largest tidal restoration project in the Northeast.
- Stories of efforts to build statewide capacity for restoration, including the Regional Restoration Partnerships Program, Dam Busters training series, and DER’s expanding culvert replacement training network.
- A spotlight on restoration in the media, with more than 25 news stories featuring DER’s work in 2025.
- A look ahead to 2026, including anticipated groundbreakings, project completions, expanded partnerships, and continued leadership.
