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Taunton River
Taunton River Granted Wild and Scenic Status
President Barack Obama has signed Omnibus Public Lands Act, which adds the Taunton River to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This designation protects the river's 40 miles of free-flowing waters -- the longest undammed coastal river in New England -- and will ensure it is managed to enhance its outstanding values.
The leadership and perseverance of Senators Edward Kennedy, John Kerry, Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Representatives Barney Frank, Jim McGovern and Patrick Kennedy were essential in getting the legislation to the President's desk.
Senator Kennedy's spokesperson Melissa Wagoner said, "Senator Kennedy is extremely pleased that Taunton River will now be part of the national Wild & Scenic River system. The river's unique history and biodiversity eminently justify this national recognition. Many volunteers in the cities and towns in the Taunton River watershed have worked hard for this day, and they deserve great credit for this important achievement."
"I am very grateful to Senator Kennedy for leading the effort to pass this bill," Rep. Frank said. "The hard work of the environmentally concerned citizens in Southeastern Massachusetts has resulted in a great step forward for our region."
Known to early human settlers as "Tetequet" or "Great River," the Taunton rises from the Hockomock Swamp, a 17,000-acre wetland where small streams meander through grassy fens and white cedar and red maple woodlands.
"The Taunton River's natural beauty, important ecology and cultural heritage make it one of our state's most critical natural resources," said Senator Kerry. "It is the longest coastal river in New England without dams, making it a haven for countless species of fish and other wildlife. For years, the communities and associations have maintained and preserved the river, and I'm proud to have been part of passing legislation to permanently protect the river for future generations to enjoy."
The Taunton watershed's nursery and foraging habitats support herring, rainbow smelt, silversides and other fish that play a critical role in supporting marine food webs. Striped bass and bluefish, which enter the river to feed on these species, are a significant recreational and commercial fishery. The upper River provides spawning habitat for migratory fish, is home to the Northern redbelly cooter (a federally-listed turtle), the globally rare bridle shiner, river otters, and seven freshwater mussel species.
Everyone enjoys the beauty of the Taunton River
