Solid science and a comprehensive study of the Silvermine River are critical to the restoration of this precious neighborhood stream.

We know the Silvermine is impacted by habitat loss, bisected by dozens of abandoned dams and suffering from stormwater runoff, but many of the structures and degraded areas aren’t mapped or meaaured.

As we begin restoring our local stream, we will first embark on a full-scale study of the Silvemrine, training volunteers from the community to walk every mile of the watershed to identify the greatest habitat threats and prioritize potential projects to restore this river.

Habitat restoration projects including tree plantings, eroded streambank stabilization and more will quickly follow the studies.

Join us in the effort to reconnect the river, increase the cold water flowing through it and improve the water quality for the benefit of the surrounding ecosystem as well as for the recreational value and aesthetic benefit it provides.

Much of the upper Silvemrine River flows through healthy and intact open space land.

As it nears the Merritt Parkway, however, it begins to enter increasing suburban landscapes - picking up sediment from eroding banks, pesticides and fertilizers running off manicured lawns and road sand and salt from area catch basins.

In its lowest reaches prior to entering the Norwalk River, the level of development increases further.

Our studies will build off past research into the watershed - including this state-funded watershed summary - to ensure that we are prioritizing work in the places that will make the most significant, immediate and lasting impact on stream health.