Much of the land near the Missisquoi River is farmed, and it’s no different here. To get the most out of farmland, it can be tempting to till right up to the river’s edge, which is what used to happen here. It’s also tempting to straighten-out the riverbanks and try to control the river’s channel. But when farmers don’t let trees and shrubs grow along the riverbank, and when a river is forced to run straight and fast, the soil washes away. The extra sand and gravel — not to mention farm runoff like manure — is bad for downstream fish, wildlife, and people that rely on clean water.
Vermont River Conservancy worked with the farmers here to add an easement along the Taylor Branch, right before it flows into the Missisquoi River. This easement will make sure the Tyler Branch can reclaim its meanders — the kinds of curving arcs that slow water and reduce erosion. It also makes sure trees and shrubs will be able to grow up along the edge of the river. All together, it’s good for the farmer, good for wildlife, and good for communities downstream.
This project made possible thanks to the support and partnership of:
