Big Dam Meetings In Natick Over Charles River Structure

NATICK, MA — Natick is facing a big dam decision, and town officials want to know what residents think.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Natick will hold two community input sessions where residents can share what they think should be done with the Charles River dam near the Pleasant Street bridge.

Natick has two options for the dam, which is out of compliance with state safety regulations: demolish the spillway, or attempt to repair the dam.

The Charles River dam was built by the town in 1934 for recreation. But state officials believe the structure may pose a safety risk downstream due to the condition of the earthen section south of the spillway.

If Natick chooses the repair option, the town will have to remove about 60 trees from the earthen part of the structure and restore the sloped area, among other upgrades. The cost would be about $1.25 million.

Removing the spillway would cost about $680,000, but would lower the level of the river upstream, and mean the end of the eye-catching waterfall. But removal would also major environmental upsides: native fish would be able to navigate upstream again, and the temperature of the river would even out, which would regulate harmful algae growth. There are also financial benefits because the town would no longer have to spend money on annual and future maintenance.

The two input sessions will run from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and noon to 2 p.m. on Wednesday. Residents can register to attend and read more about the proposals on the town website.