gulfbrookdam

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Gulf Brook Dam Removal/Day Woods Accessible Trail

Visitors to our Day Woods property will notice a roughly paved path extending from the parking area to the dam site on Gulf Brook. This is one step toward our twin goals of removing the concrete dam that partially blocks Gulf Brook and establishing an accessible trail from the parking area up to the dam site. Thanks to a grant from the Massachusetts Environmental Trust plus, a generous contribution from the Squan-a-Tissit chapter of Trout Unlimited and the assistance of the Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration, a Reconnaissance Study was conducted as a precursor to obtaining the necessary permits to remove the dam. The concrete dam removal will restore stream flow and connectivity along Gulf Brook, benefiting the local fish and mussel populations.

Visitors to the dam site may have noticed a stone dam located behind the concrete dam. The stone dam dates from the 19th century and is of historical interest. This dam will remain in place as its impact on stream flow is negligible.

Meanwhile, with the support of Pepperell’s own Highway Department, we are making good progress establishing Pepperell’s second accessible trail. At just under .2 miles in length, the trail will lead to an overlook of Gulf Brook and the impounded area behind the dam. From this perch, visitors will have a great view of the historic stone dam and local wildlife. In addition to the trail itself, the parking area will be expanded, and additional informational signage will be installed.

The dam was removed in February 2021 and we expect to complete the accessible trail by Spring 2021.

This project is funded in part by the Massachusetts Environmental Trust's Drive for a Better Environment Grants Program, which is funded solely through the sale of the three specialty plates – the Right Whale, the Leaping Brook Trout, and the Blackstone Valley Mill. Please visit the MET website here for more information on how you can support their programs.

Do not copy or reproduce in any form for any reason without written permission from Nashoba Conservation Trust.