Who is a member?
Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
A recently replaced culvert.
The Division of Ecological Restoration is soliciting proposals from municipalities seeking funding to replace undersized, perched, and/or degraded culverts located in areas of high ecological value.
The DER anticipates that awards through the Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance Grant Program will total between $750,000 and $1.5 million in fiscal 2022. The program was developed to encourage municipalities to replace culverts with better-designed crossings that meet improved structural and environmental design standards and climate resiliency criteria.
To be eligible for funding, projects must intend to meet the goals of the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards. Applying these standards to culvert replacement projects improves river function and access for fish and wildlife, according to the DER, and reduces public safety hazards such as flooding, culvert failure and road washout.
In fiscal 2021, the DER awarded more than $860,000 to 12 project proposals.
Applications for funding are due by 5 p.m. on March 18. Application details, frequently asked questions, and information about prior awardees can be found at www.mass.gov/how-to/culvert-replacement-municipal-assistance-grant-program.