Hurrying across Vermont on Interstate-89 north of Royalton, you’d miss experiencing the delightfully twisty-turvy bends of the White River’s second branch. But follow highway 14 north of Royalton, and you’ll find yourself within view of the White River’s delightfully meandering curves amidst the valley’s farmland.
The owners of Fat Rooster Farm wanted to make sure their stretch of the Second Branch would always be protected. We worked with the farm to put an easement along the river corridor, where they’ll let shrubs grow to support fish and bird habitat, they won’t build things like houses or barns, and the river will be free to change its course over time. This is good news for downstream communities, because the land can help slow and filter flood waters. And it’s good news for the farm, because the broad, sweeping meanders help the ground absorb more, keeping the water table higher even during drought.
This project made possible thanks to the support and partnership of:
