What Massachusetts’ New Biodiversity Plan Means for Charles River Watershed Residents
Last month, Governor Healey announced a nation-leading 25-year biodiversity initiative to help restore rivers, forests, and habitats across the state. This first-of-its-kind executive order claims it will halt and reverse biodiversity loss in the Commonwealth, promising to “rebuild biodiversity and invest in nature to sustain our health and well-being, food security, economy, and way of life.”
This plan represents a significant step toward Massachusetts' climate goals; however, this order is only as powerful as its implementation. With recent news that the Mass Fish and Wildlife Board chair has resigned due to a lack of funding to adequately implement the plan, we’re left wondering what this biodiversity initiative means for the Charles River watershed and its residents. We’ve dug into the 36-page report and have some key takeaways to share.
This plan outlines potential governance and funding models that would drive progress aligning with many of CRWA’s goals, including:
Removing at least 300 dams and upgrading at least 2,500 culverts by 2050 with the ultimate goal of restoring fish migration.
Reviewing the use of second-generation anti-coagulant rodenticides SGARs and encouraging integrated pest management on state, municipal, and private property.
Increasing state investment in sewer separation, wastewater treatment, and green infrastructure while “significantly reducing or eliminating” combined sewer overflows (CSOs).
Requiring water conservation measures during droughts.
Considering water quality standards for threats like cyanobacteria and chloride pollution.
Increasing capacity and collaboration to track and remove invasive species.
Reducing single-use plastics through better bottle redemption incentives and installation of trash booms on urban rivers.
Launching a local biodiversity grant program to grow the conservation and restoration workforce.
Commitment to Indigenous leadership by cultivating relationships with Indigenous peoples and Tribes, supporting Indigenous-led stewardship, traditional ecological knowledge, and food sovereignty.
We fully support these goals and are hopeful that the Healey administration’s guidance will help the state achieve them. However, it’s important to note that an executive order is not legislation. To make these goals a reality, we must advocate for bills that provide the necessary funding to bring them to life. We are working to promote legislation such as our CSO Bill, Rodenticide Bill, Invasive Species Bill, Drought Bill, and others to ensure that this executive order receives necessary funding.
Join us in advocating for legislation that promotes biodiversity in our watershed and takes actionable steps to achieve Healey’s goals.
