Concerns over river management and environmental protection took center stage at the MassDEP FirstLight 401 Water Quality Certification Public Information Session held on October 10, 2024. Attendees voiced their frustrations regarding the impact of hydropower operations on the Connecticut River ecosystem, particularly in relation to fish passage and natural flow regimes.

A key discussion point emerged around the proposed settlement agreement aimed at improving fish habitats. Officials emphasized that the focus was on negotiating a solution that benefits aquatic life rather than leaving decisions to federal regulators in Washington, D.C. One representative stated, “We believe that a negotiated settlement is better than just letting some staff member at FERC decide what's best for the Connecticut River.”

Participants raised critical questions about the timeline for implementing changes to river flows following the renewal of the hydropower license. It was clarified that minimum flow changes would occur immediately upon licensing, while more extensive adjustments to achieve a naturalized flow regime would take up to three years. However, concerns lingered about how these changes would be managed, especially with the ongoing operations of the Northfield facility, which some attendees described as a “monster” affecting natural water flow.

The dialogue also highlighted a significant gap in monitoring practices. Priscilla Lynch, a local resident, challenged officials on the lack of discharge monitoring from the facilities, questioning the credibility of assessments made under the Clean Water Act. “How are we to be trusting you to be really making good assessments and decisions about what's happening with our river if you're not even monitoring the discharge required by the Clean Water Act?” she asked.

As the meeting concluded, the call for transparency and accountability resonated strongly among community members. The discussions underscored the ongoing tension between hydropower operations and environmental stewardship, with many advocating for more rigorous oversight and public engagement in the decision-making process. The outcomes of this session may shape future actions regarding river management and conservation efforts in Massachusetts.