The Master Plan Implementation Committee of Northborough, Massachusetts, convened on May 15, 2025, to discuss pressing issues regarding local dam management and ownership. The meeting highlighted ongoing challenges in obtaining crucial information from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) concerning two specific dams: Aluminum City and River Street.

Committee members expressed frustration over the lack of response from DEP, which has stalled any potential work on these privately owned dams. The Sudbury Valley Trustees (SVT) have been actively seeking information from DEP but have yet to receive the necessary details, including the identities of the dam owners. This absence of information has left the committee at a standstill, as understanding ownership is essential for any further action.

Jean Cahill, a committee member, noted that the responsibility for moving forward with dam issues has largely been left to the town, with SVT willing to partner as a river-focused organization. However, there has been no recent communication from them regarding the dams. The committee discussed the possibility of utilizing the registry of deeds to identify property lines and ownership designations, although the effectiveness of this approach remains uncertain.

Rick, another committee member, shared insights from his experience with a similar situation in Milbury, where ownership disputes over a dam have persisted for years due to unclear property lines and shared ownership among multiple parties. This example underscored the complexities surrounding dam ownership and the potential liabilities involved, especially as climate change intensifies weather patterns.

The committee acknowledged the importance of resolving these ownership issues, particularly in light of the legal responsibilities that come with dam ownership, such as insurance requirements. The discussion concluded with a call for staff member Vinny to take the lead in advancing the evaluation of the dams and facilitating communication with DEP.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgent need for clarity on dam ownership and management in Northborough, as the committee seeks to address these critical infrastructure concerns.