Moirs Environmental Dialogues

The Mystic River Watershed Association works to protect and restore the Mystic River, its tributaries and watershed lands. Executive Director, EkOngKar Singh Khalsa tells us about one of the most urban and densely populated watersheds in Massachusetts. Three Superfund sites are within its borders. The river is home to various Environmental Justice communities. The Mystic has a history of industry most evident along its banks. Liquid Nitrogen Gas (LNG) tankers go into the lower reaches where the river meets Boston Harbor. Herring surmount the Amelia Earhart Dam in Somerville to spawn above. At the Mystic Lakes a fish ladder was recently completed. MyRWA folk need no longer help the fish up to the higher lake every spring. The Mystic is home for ducks, herons and turtles. It provides winter respite for bald eagles. EK Khalsa addresses the challenges that face the Mystic today, what people are doing to restore natural systems, and what Mystic prospects are for the future.