- Division of Ecological Restoration
DER is seeking proposals from Massachusetts municipalities interested in replacing an undersized, perched, and/or degraded culvert located in an area of high ecological value. The purpose of this funding is to encourage municipalities to replace culverts with better designed crossings that meet improved structural and environmental design standards and climate resiliency criteria. Total funding available in FY20 is anticipated to be $750,000.
Additional funding up to $325,000 (beyond the $750,000 described above) may also available in the Traphole Brook watershed for culvert replacement projects that restore fish passage and benefits this coldwater fishery. The source of these funds is the Blackburn and Union Privileges Superfund Site Natural Resource Damage (NRD) settlement. Refer to the RFR materials for additional information regarding eligible towns, proposed project duration, additional project evaluation criteria, and the Blackburn and Union Privileges Superfund Settlement.
Only projects that intend to meet the goals of the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards will be considered for funding. Incorporating these Standards into culvert design will improve river function and access for fish and wildlife, and will reduce hazards to public safety, such as flooding, culvert failure, and road washout.
Massachusetts municipalities are eligible to apply for funding to support advancement of one culvert replacement project toward completion. Interested communities can view the full RFR and download materials on our website.
The application deadline is 5PM, March 20, 2019.
