Imperiled Rivers

The Problem of Summer Low Flow
In many parts of Massachusetts, summer water use is rapidly increasing, primarily due to increased lawn and landscape irrigation. This reduces the amount of water flowing in rivers and streams, often causing severe stress on aquatic habitats. Ensuring adequate flows to protect and preserve fresh water habitats is a key conservation goal for the Massachusetts Audubon Society, and with the support of the Massachusetts Environmental Trust, we have compiled the necessary tools and resources to help protect Massachusetts rivers and streams from low flow.

Take Action!
There are many things you and your community can do to protect and preserve our rivers from the effects of excessive water use. The next steps are up to you!

This resource tool kit contains the following information:

• The problem and causes of summer low flow: Information on why summer flows in our rivers and streams are declining and the resulting threats to organisms and habitats.
• What you and your community can do: Actions you can take—in your yard or in your home—and actions your community can take to reduce water use now and conserve our important water resources for tomorrow.
• More about rivers: Connect with your local watershed association, learn more about rivers from Massachusetts and national river organizations, and find out where you can visit a river at a Massachusetts Audubon sanctuary.
• River resources: links to related websites, a glossary of important river terms, and a reading list to learn more about rivers and river conservation.