Project overview
Since 2003, there has been a local effort to examine the costs and benefits of restoring tidal flow to the West Branch of the Pleasant River. Over the past two decades, project partners have been investigating the tide gates and their effects on the current condition of upstream road crossings, marsh habitat, and flooding patterns.
This large-scale project consists of 4 major parts:
- Evaluate upgrades to 4 MaineDOT road crossings (Addison Rd, Point St, Water St, and Ridge Rd) in the West Branch to reduce current and future potential for flooding
- Assess vulnerable public and private well and septic infrastructure and mitigate potential impacts from changes to the system
- Rehabilitate the marsh surface to improve function and habitat
- Identify a community supported plan to redesign the Ridge Rd. crossing to both restore tidal flow and protect infrastructure
Map of the project area, highlighting town boundaries, waterways, and road-stream crossings
Project Vision and Goals
The overall project vision is to make the West Branch of the Pleasant River healthy and resilient to support community safety and well-being.
This vision is supported by the following goals:
- Reduce vulnerability to storm surge hazards
- Reduce risk of property and infrastructure damage from flooding and sea level rise
- Restore habitat for the native fish and wildlife that contribute to the vitality of the region
- Acknowledge the history of the West Branch and respect its importance to local communities.