What’s happening at Cheesecake Brook?

On Wednesday, June 17th, CRWA hosted a public meeting highlighting our work along Cheesecake Brook. As a part of the larger Cheesecake Brook Community Celebration, Newton residents were invited into an informative presentation detailing the lifespan of the 2-year project and its significance for the Charles River and its watershed. Led by Stormwater Associate, Alfredo Con, attendees built up their excitement and appreciation for the restoration efforts in anticipation for the ribbon cutting ceremony immediately following the presentation. Throughout the presentation, attendees enjoyed cheese, crackers, seltzers, and even cheesecake, reenacting the colonial setting that gave the brook its amusing alias. While some of the more technical aspects of the project might have been confusing, the facilitated Q&A session at the end of the presentation helped bring clarity. Residents were curious about where phosphorus came from in the first place, what type of long-term maintenance would be necessary, and what this project meant for the Greater Newton Community and the Charles River watershed. CRWA also gauged community interest in priorities for future restoration and green infrastructure projects. Residents were interested in seeing more greenery in their community through trees and rain gardens, as well as increased resilience to climate change and flooding. With more engaged and informed residents, more projects, like what we’ve seen at Cheesecake Brook, could rise to the spotlight throughout the watershed!