Project: Charles River Dam

NEWS: Wetland Flagging for Dam Removal Project Occurring on 9/6/2023

Contact Natick Environmental Planner, Claire Rundelli, with questions: 508-647-6452
Dam intro

The Charles River Dam in South Natick is a High Hazard dam with a poor condition rating from the Office of Dam Safety, due to extensive mature tree growth on the earthen berm. Natick is required to address these deficiencies, and is working to remove the dam and restore the river.

This webpage provides background materials and updates on the project, which is expected to take multiple years.

Project Timeline

This project is expected to take multiple years and will require review and permits from a variety of state and federal organizations. Natick is currently in Phase 1: Engineering, Environmental Review, & Permitting.

Dam phases

Project Updates

In summer 2023, Natick received a Design/Permit Grant from the MA Dam & Seawall program to design dam removal and begin the permitting process. The Town hired GZA to complete the Phase I Scope of Work, which is expected to take two years.

Natick also received an Action Grant from the MA Municipal Vulnerability Program to develop permit level design plans for the public riverfront parks adjacent to or near the existing dam. 

Project updates are provided to the Select Board quarterly, as part of their regularly scheduled meetings. The public is welcome to attend, ask questions about the project, and comment.

Engineering Analysis