Portage, Paddle & Parade - Turners Falls

56 1st Street,Montague MA 01376

10 July, 2021

Description

Parade around the Turners Falls dam to highlight the need for better recreational access to the Connecticut River. Hydroelectric facilities create obstacles to river recreation and are required to accommodate for recreation as part of their operating licenses. They have done a poor job and our local economies suffer without functional and effective access to rivers. Join Connecticut River Conservancy, Appalachian Mountain Club, American Whitewater, and other recreation partners to highlight recreation investments these hydro companies should be making as part of their new operating licenses being finalized now.     Two Portage Paddle Parades will focus on much needed upgrades to portage routes around the Bellows Falls and Turners Falls Dams as examples of infrastructure investments that would benefit our local communities. Join us on 7/10 in Turners Falls (7/17 in Bellows Falls) for a short press event to learn about the issues, followed by a public parade along the proposed portage routes. This is your opportunity to speak up for the river and your recreation rights. Tell the hydro companies you want better access to the river.  Bring signs & noise makers! Parade Plan: 11:30am  Press Conference & Speakers - Unity Park 12:00pm  Parade down Canalside Rail Trail to area below the dam For more information on the parade or if you're interested in joining us for the morning advocacy paddle, contact Andrea Donlon ([email protected]) Connecticut River Conservancy is the voice for the Connecticut River watershed, from source to sea. We collaborate with partners across four states to protect and advocate for your rivers and educate and engage communities. We bring people together to prevent pollution, improve habitat, and promote enjoyment of your river and its tributary streams. Healthy rivers support healthy economies.