The windsor brook wetland restoration project aims to restore the natural hydrology and function of an area altered decades ago

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (DOI) awarded a $900,000 Project Grant under the National Wildlife Refuge System Enhancements program (CFDA 15.654) to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. The grant will fund the Windsor Brook Wetland Restoration Project, which aims to restore the natural hydrology and function of a wetland area that was previously altered. Key objectives include removing a berm that impedes water flow, reducing invasive species, and allowing the wetland to return to its dynamic state. This restoration work is expected to increase climate resiliency and improve the overall ecological health of the Windsor Brook headwaters within the Eugene Moran Wildlife Management Area. The award period runs from August 30, 2024 to December 31, 2027.

A portion of the wetland was excavated and a berm was constructed to impound water. This berm impedes natural flow, increases water temperature, and has become a collection point for invasive species, particularly phragmites australis. Removal of the berm and restoration of the site will increase climate resiliency, reduce the threat from invasive species, and allow the wetland to return to its dynamic function. The project is located on the eugene moran wildlife management area (WMA) in the town of windsor, massachusetts, within an extensive wetland complex that comprises the headwaters of windsor brook, a tributary to the housatonic river.