C.R.A.A.C. Canoe River Aquifer Advisory Committee 

One of CRAAC’s most challenging and long-term goals has been to create a regional “greenbelt” - land controlled by the public and preserved in its natural state, The intent is to acquire parcels within the riparian corridor through friendly purchase or easement. The extensive wetlands and woods abutting the river are integral components in maintaining water quality and quantity. They are also prime habitat for numerous species of plants and wildlife - some of which have been designated “endangered’ or “species of special concern.” Therefore, preservation of these unique riparian areas is critical to retaining the overall health of the river ecosystem which in turn protects this public water supply. Facilitating public access, another important goal. may also be accomplished.

Through the receipt of a $50,000 grant from the Department of Environmental Protection, (DEP) the committee has begun to address this important goal. The grant money is being used to create a Geographical Information System (GIS) which will be a database and map of all the parcels along the river corridor. Hundreds of parcels from the five communities are included. The complexity of this task clearly required outside assistance.

Working with DEP staff the Hydrology & Water Resource Group within the Engineering Department at the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth was contacted to provide technical assistance and the necessary labor force. Students visited each of the five communities to obtain information on every parcel within the Canoe River aquifer. This data is being standardized and cataloged - noting such important facts as ownership, parcel size, location, wetlands, frontage, etc. All this data and the applicable tax maps are being entered into a new GIS program employing state-of-the-art technology. The GIS will provide a comprehensive system for each of the five communities to immediately access various types of data on individual lots, print high quality maps and to perform other computer applications. This information will be the basis for identifying and prioritizing parcels which could become part of a “Greenbelt” through the aquifer.

For more information on the CRAAC's Greenbelt initiative contact members Jennifer Carlino or Leonard Flynn, your local conservation commission or land trust.