We all call different places home. Some of us are in villages, while others live in cities. In Vermont, even remote areas are known as “towns.” But beyond these labels, we share something deeper: watersheds. These natural landscapes, shaped by rivers, streams, and ponds, connect us all. The water, visible or hidden underground, is vital for our lives. When nature struggles with pollution or floods, we see how intertwined our fates are.
In central Vermont, the Winooski Natural Resources Conservation District plays a key role in protecting our water. They conduct surveys like the “Lake Wise Assessment” to check water quality and find out where contamination might come from. They also assist local farmers with grants for essential projects, such as drilling wells for livestock.
One notable project was the removal of the Hands Mill Dam, a nearly century-old structure on the Jail Branch river. This dam posed a risk of major disaster if it failed. It held back hundreds of thousands of cubic feet of water, and if it broke, it could cause immense damage and even loss of life. The town of Washington wanted it gone but lacked the resources. The Winooski Conservation District stepped in to facilitate the removal, handling everything from funding applications to coordinating with various agencies.
On July 10, 2023, Vermont faced severe flooding, and the dam failed, highlighting the urgent need for this project. Luckily, there were no casualties, but this incident reinforced the importance of restoring the floodplain. Flooding events might become more frequent due to climate change, making such projects crucial for future safety.
With the dam removed, more possibilities open up for watershed conservation. The district can now focus on improving culverts, restoring riverbanks, and managing stormwater runoff. Their work spans not only Washington County but also parts of nearby Chittenden County, where development pressures pose risks to the environment.
Despite its vast area and responsibilities, the Winooski NRCD operates with only a handful of staff. Currently, they have three and a half employees, including a conservation specialist. Dan Koenemann, who recently returned to lead the district, illustrates how dedicated but small the team is.
In Vermont, conservation districts have a rich history. They were established in the 1930s during the New Deal to address poor farming practices that contributed to the Dust Bowl. Today, these districts are classified as special governmental units, but they struggle with funding. The state allocates only a small amount of money to each district, which means they often rely on grants to carry out their mission.
Newly onboarded conservation specialist, Lucas Goldfluss, is eager to jump into hands-on projects aimed at improving our watersheds. He leads initiatives such as the “Trees for Streams” program, helping landowners restore eroded stream banks. His role is crucial in connecting community members and local organizations to the resources needed to tackle environmental challenges.
Goldfluss notes that there are indeed funds available for conservation efforts, emphasizing that securing these resources is key to keeping their projects alive. It’s a reminder that, even in tough economic times, opportunities exist for positive change if we all work together.
