Since 2021, MWA and local partners have performed riparian and stream geomorphic assessments along nearly 100 miles of rivers and brooks in the Northeast Kingdom. Riparian assessments are visual surveys that characterize streambank and channel habitat conditions, riparian vegetation communities, water quality concerns, signs of flooding or erosion, and other natural and artificial features. Stream Geomorphic Assessments are more intensive surveys which require measuring the channel and floodplain and evaluating numerous physical parameters that may influence the river. These measurements help scientists to characterize the condition of the stream, identify historic alterations, estimate flood regimes, understand erosion-deposition dynamics, and plan for river corridor management. 

Both assessments are critical in our ability to recognize and understand the unique character of each stream in our watershed. The results of these evaluations are used to prioritize river issues, identify opportunities for conservation and restoration projects, reduce flood erosion risks, improve fish and wildlife habitat, and protect water quality. You can find data and projects from this work in the Tactical Basin Plan. This project is funded through the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission.