Vermont Business Magazine In 2020 Vermont River Conservancy (VRC) received Clean Water Funding from the Agency of Natural Resources, Department of Environmental Conservation for a river design project in Bennington. The objective was to analyze river dynamics and develop engineering plans to restore a section of the Roaring Branch along Route 9 in Bennington.
The end goal of this important project is to implement the engineered plans and restore the floodplain to allow the Roaring Branch to move and shift without constraint, which will reduce erosion and flood hazards downstream as well as build flood resiliency to keep communities safe, and improve aquatic and wildlife habitat.
VRC worked with SLR Consulting, leaders in environmental and advisory solutions with an office in Waterbury, to perform the data review, site visits, and analysis that helped determine the preliminary and final design plans along with cost opinion and permitting technical information. Another terrific partner in this three year long project was the current landowners, Bells Corner LLC, a family trust that has owned and stewarded land in Bennington County for many generations. The landowners have been thoughtful and patient with the process.
Next steps, apply for implementation funds from state agencies, specifically the Flood Resilient Communities Fund to get trucks on the ground, trees planted, and floodplains functioning again. Stay tuned to Vermont River Conservancy for more news about this significant project.
About Vermont River Conservancy
Vermont River Conservancy protects special lands along rivers. We engage communities to protect and restore Vermont rivers for kids, communities, and wildlife. Our work started more than 28 years ago when Vermont River Conservancy protected its first swimming hole, a place that had hosted generations of swimmers cooling off, anglers casting for trout, and paddlers launching kayaks. Today, our work includes projects to conserve floodplains, protect headwater forests, and remove dams. To learn more, visit vermontriverconservancy.org.
Montpelier, VT - May 25, 2023. Vermont River Conservancy. Montpelier. vermontriverconservancy.org
