Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Celebrates New Access to Outdoor Recreation on the Millers River

ATHOL — The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) Office of Fishing & Boating Access (OFBA) celebrated the completion of a new canoe and kayak launch on the Millers River. State and local leaders, community partners, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to highlight this new connection to the outdoors in downtown Athol. 

“The Millers River offers some of the best outdoor recreation our state has to offer. The Healey-Driscoll Administration is delighted to partner with the local community to increase access to this incredible wild river, unlocking nearly seven new river miles for paddling, trout fishing, and adventure in downtown Athol,” said DFG Commissioner Tom O’Shea. “This project is a shining example of all we can accomplish when we come together with a shared commitment to get more people outside and connected to nature right in their neighborhoods.” 

The Millers River is a 50-mile-long waterway that flows from Ashburnham to the Connecticut River. After nearly 20 years of partnership and collaboration, OFBA invested $385,000 to build the canoe and kayak launch. The facility features a new concrete boat launch, shore fishing area, and parking to increase access to premier paddling and freshwater fishing on the Millers River.  

The new facility is located on MassWildlife’s Millers River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and is adjacent to the Town of Athol Minnie French Conservation Area. This project opens up 6.6 new river miles for paddling from Royalston to Athol through the Town’s Bearsden Conservation Area. Additionally, it complements the downstream six-mile stretch of the Millers River Watershed Council (MRWC) Blue Trail from Athol to Orange, where the state has three other access points.  

Massachusetts has the fastest-growing outdoor recreation economy in the nation. Through the Mass Ready Act, the Healey-Driscoll Administration is committed to growing this important sector and has authorized $15 million to support fishing and boating access projects statewide. The Administration’s FY26—FY30 Capital Investment Plan also includes a $300,000 annual increase for OFBA to grow and maintain its portfolio of over 300 boat access, shore fishing, and fishing piers to provide access to the public waters of Massachusetts. 

“This project is a true testament to the power of partnerships. We are incredibly grateful for the local leaders who stepped up years ago to make this project a priority, and for all the supporters who have helped carry this through to the finish line,” said OFBA Acting Director Terry Smith. “Because of this steadfast dedication, future generations will have the opportunity to connect with the outdoors and make meaningful memories along the shores of the Millers River.” 

“This new boat launch will enable even more anglers to enjoy fishing and boating on the Millers River, which is one of the many special places statewide that MassWildlife stocks with trout each spring and fall,” said MassWildlife Director Mark S. Tisa. “Improving public access to our rivers not only supports recreation but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural resources we work to conserve.”    

"Athol and the North Quabbin region are full of beautiful outdoor recreation opportunities. My thanks to The Department of Fish & Game, the Office of Fishing and Boating Access, Athol leadership, and outdoor advocates near and far for helping to expand access to the Millers River," said Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton). 

“The opening of this boat launch is a wonderful example of the Healey Driscoll administration’s commitment to our waterways and those who enjoy them,” said State Representative Susannah Whipps (U-Athol). “The legislature’s investment in the Millers River began with Senator Bob Wetmore, and I am pleased to see it continue today.” 

“This project has been years in the making and eagerly anticipated by anglers and kayakers alike,” said Town of Athol Town Manager Shaun Shuoski. “Having a blue trail link from South Royalston to downtown Athol is yet another nature-based amenity for our region. Many thanks to our state and local partners for making this happen.” 

“The community and state have worked for years to protect the Millers River watershed and to restore this beautiful river. It brings me tremendous joy to know that now, even more people will have access to some of the most remote and scenic parts of this river for fishing, paddling, bird watching, and simple enjoyment,” said Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust Executive Director Emma Ellsworth. 

“We thank the Department of Fish & Game and OFBA for listening to the local community in providing access to this remote stretch of the restored Millers River as it passes through 2000+ acres of protected open space where brook trout, freshwater mussels, and dragonflies now thrive,” said Athol Bird & Nature Club President Dave Small. “Providing access to this section of the Millers River has been discussed by local outdoor enthusiasts for decades. It is great to see the collaboration of state, local, and non-profit entities to bring it to fruition.” 

"This area of the Millers River, locally known as "the flats", is one of the nicest areas on the river to cast a fly, enjoy a hike, or just spend time relaxing with nature. Millers River Trout Unlimited has worked collaboratively with the state and other local partners for many years to help improve the fishing areas here along the river,” said Millers River Trout Unlimited Chapter President Scott MacDonald. “Finally seeing the completion of the new access ramp is like having a dream come true for many of us who love this area. Now, the full 6.6 miles of the Bearsden Conservation Area can be accessed by all who love to come and enjoy the area! I want to personally thank DFG Commissioner Tom O'Shea, former DFG Commissioner Ron Amidon, and all the folks at OFBA for their continued efforts to make this a reality. It’s going to be a great asset to the whole community for many years to come!" 

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