On September 9th, Lori Johnson, Nashua River Watershed Authority manager, addressed the Rotary club of Nashua regarding, the history of the Nashua River, from being one of the most polluted rivers in the country to now being a clean, center of attention to Nashua’s’ downtown development. This is the 50th year of the NRWA.
The river has had its challenges from being polluted with a listing on the 10 ten most polluted in the 60’s. Now the river has become a large business and community attraction. The NWRA involves 32 communities covering 538 square miles. The river is one of the few that runs from South to North
The heart of their work is to monitor water quality at 30-40 sites along the river where the samples are evaluated for aquatic health and human recreational use. The readings vary with recent rainfall and run-off. Nashua sites have regulary tested very well.
Invasive plants are a threat – particularly water chestnut. It can be removed with water harvesting en masse or by early detection and removal. The early detection of the weed and removal is critical to maintaining the clear water.
Clear culverts are another area the NWRA monitors. Clear culverts are critical to maintaining flow, water levels and wildlife movement. Better land protection also yields better water quality. Mine Falls park was its first urban greenway and a good example.
People support activities they understand and the NRWA works diligently at Environmental Education for children and adults in the community. There are programs that involve River Classroom for elementary students. Scientists-in-Residence is another program that studies the watershed. Alan Manoian is leading a program next week on the importance of the Nashua River to the Textile and water turbine history of Nashua.
Using space-based education programs, like those done by the MWRA, is a key to inspiring students to go into STEM education paths. Volunteers are always welcome to help them on their mission to help all enjoy the greenways and rivers in the area.
Marion Stoddard was the person to inspire developing the MWRA.