Charting Progress: Southwick’s Lake Dredging Project Gains Momentum with CPC Approval and State Grant Pursuit
The Community Preservation Committee (CPC) in Southwick recently granted unanimous approval to the town’s Lake Management Committee’s request for $100,000 in support of a vital dredging project. This initiative not only demonstrates the town’s commitment but also increases its chances of securing additional grant funding.
Richard Grannells, Chair of the Lake Management Committee, stressed the importance of this funding as a key incentive for potential state grants. The dredging project, targeted at the area near the south boat ramp and the connection between Great Brook and Middle Pond, aims to improve water quality, address flooding concerns, and prevent damage to boats.
The grant being sought by the Lake Management Committee, known as the Inland Waters Dredging Pilot Program, offers a substantial opportunity for funding. With $4 million available statewide, securing CPC support could be crucial in distinguishing Southwick’s application.
Approval from the CPC is contingent upon town meeting approval. However, if the grant application is unsuccessful, the funds will revert to the CPC’s general unreserved fund. The proposed dredging project, dependent on state funding, may utilize dry dredging techniques due to the presence of rock and gravel in the area.
Shallow water depths near the south boat ramp pose challenges for boat navigation and can lead to sediment disturbance, negatively impacting water quality. Additionally, the project aims to address issues with water flow between Middle Pond and Great Brook and eradicate hydrilla, a problematic aquatic plant species recently discovered near the south ramp.
To support the project’s various phases, including design, dredging, and environmental monitoring, the Lake Management Committee seeks $267,000 in grant funding. The CPC’s $100,000 allocation will complement these efforts, ensuring the project’s success and furthering Southwick’s commitment to environmental preservation.
Funding from the CPC, sourced from property tax surtaxes and state grants, underscores Southwick’s dedication to housing, historical preservation, open space protection, and recreation. This allocation aligns with the committee’s objectives, emphasizing the project’s significance in enhancing Southwick’s natural resources and community well-being.