Located at the "head-of-tide," the Ipswich Mills Dam in Ipswich, Mass., represents a hard stop between fresh river water and tidal saltwater, and it is the first blockage encountered by returning migratory fish.
As owners of the dam, the Town of Ipswich is responsible for all costs associated with it, including inspection and ongoing maintenance of the existing fish ladder. Removing the dam would eliminate liability, maintenance, and operational costs from the town budget.
Currently, the Ipswich River Watershed Association is working with the town and partners to remove the dam and restore fish passage to create a rare freshwater tidal habitat, reduce flood risk, increase public safety, and save taxpayer money.
"Our Responsibility: Freeing the Ipswich River" documents these benefits and more for town residents, who will vote in May 2024 on whether the dam will be removed or if it will stay.
For more information about the production of the film, visit reelquestfilms.com/project/our-responsibility-freeing-the-ipswich-river/.