The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, the Coastal Resources Management Council, and the Town of Charlestown announced on Apr. 7 the completion of a long-term repair project at the Charlestown Breachway. The $8.4 million initiative included restoration work, channel dredging, beach re-nourishment, and construction of two sand dunes with plantings planned for later in the year.
This project is significant for local infrastructure and environmental protection. Officials said it will help safeguard coastal infrastructure and support ecological balance in Ninigret Pond while improving navigation and stabilizing the coastline against climate impacts.
Governor Dan McKee said, “The successful completion of this project is the result of strong collaborative planning between state agencies and the Town of Charlestown to support the long-term resiliency of the breachway. Rhode Island’s coastal communities are on the frontlines of climate change impacts, and by working together we’ve made the necessary repairs to this critical infrastructure.”
DEM Director Terry Gray said, “Rhode Island is on the front lines and bearing the brunt of the impacts from climate change. Strengthening the resiliency of our coastal infrastructure protects our environment, communities, and economy from sea level rise and increased storm surge events.” Gray also acknowledged effective communication with stakeholders throughout construction: “The Breachway, Ninigret Pond, and beachfront all provide crucial environmental, recreational, and economic benefits not only for Charlestown but all of Rhode Island.”
CRMC Executive Director Jeffrey Willis said that CRMC was proud to be part of a highly collaborative effort: “We’ve ensured the repaired breachway will keep navigation safe, improve water quality, and continue recreational and commercial uses for decades to come.” Charlestown Town Administrator Jeffrey Allen added that improved water circulation is expected to quickly support healthier aquatic environments: “Final touches…are scheduled for this fall to further integrate into its natural surroundings.”
In addition to these efforts at Charlestown Breachway, DEM leads ongoing habitat restoration at Ninigret Barrier Beach in partnership with Save The Bay. Removing invasive plants there aims to restore natural sand movement during storms.
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment operates within agriculture and forestry management fields according to its official website. It promotes local agriculture as well as seafood products to support community sustainability according to its official website, aiming to sustain these sectors for future generations according to its official website. The division collaborates with organizations such as Center for Mediation and Collaboration according to its official website while providing services like agricultural product registrations or animal health permits according to its official website. Its programs include certifications as well as marketing initiatives supporting Rhode Island-grown products according to its official website.
