This project will remove three dams – two on Frost Gully Brook and one on an unnamed tributary – to restore natural stream flow and restore and enhance associated wetlands. Frost Gully Brook is a small, coastal stream with abundant groundwater inflow that supports native, sea-run brook trout. Removal of the dams will improve aquatic connectivity and remove 1,550 linear feet of impoundments that are raising water temperatures in the Brook. After the dams are removed and all work complete, the wetlands upstream of the dams are anticipated to transition from open water impoundment to vegetated wetland consisting of freshwater emergent, scrub-shrub, and forested wetland. The wetland enhancement resulting from the removal of the dams should provide increased functions and values, including improved nutrient and sediment filtration, production export, shoreline stabilization, and wildlife habitat. Trout Unlimited will also monitor restoration of the sites over time. To provide long-term protection to these enhanced wetlands, the restored stream channel, adjacent wetlands, and an upland buffer will remain in an undeveloped state over the long-term. In all, the project encompasses 13 acres, including dam sites, upstream channel, and associated wetlands and uplands. The project is adjacent to and upstream of the Middle Bay and Maquoit Focus Area of Statewide Ecological Significance and located on land owned and managed by project partners, Freeport Conservation Trust and Maine Water.
