The dock survey project is going well, but Kyra and I have run into some difficulties as we try to match docks we surveyed with DEP permits. We now have a basic map of where all the docks we have surveyed so far are located, but matching them with permits is a major challenge! Some of the permits come from the 1800's and look like they were written with a parchment quill. And finding the location of some of the more recent permits from the database at DEP has also proved challenging. Bottom line is, many of the docks we have surveyed do not have permits. The most interesting one thus far has been a tiny dock with a giant iron bin and a sign that says, "Free Water;" the owner put out water bottles for canoers and kayakers.
Talking with residents has also been interesting; many of them have been interested in CRWA's projects, especially our water chestnut removal program, since they all have water chestnuts surrounding their properties. Initially, some of the residents we approached were a little hostile, wondering why we were (legally) on their properties to look at their docks. After we explained that we worked for CRWA, however, they opened up and even showed interest in getting involved.
Next week we will continue our canoe survey of docks from CRCK in Newton downstream to the next dam.
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