Braintree Establishes Herring And Fisheries Commission

BRAINTREE, MA – Mayor Erin V. Joyce recently introduced the establishment of a Herring and Fisheries Commission under Town Council Order 25-058, which the Council unanimously adopted on Sept. 16.

The purpose of the Braintree Herring & Fisheries Commission is to advise on restoring, protecting, and enhancing the ecological health of local waterways to support thriving populations of migratory fish, including Blueback Herring, Alewife, Rainbow Smelt, and American Eel.

The Commission will advise the Mayor and the Mayor’s designees on keeping rivers, streams, brooks, and ponds free of debris to facilitate the safe passage of river herring and other migratory species, officials said.

By advising on the removal of migration barriers, the operation of fish ladders, the improvement of culverts, and collaboration with community partners, the Commission helps to promote sustainable fish passage, healthy ecosystems, and resilient infrastructure for Braintree’s current and future generations, officials said.

The recent Monatiquot River Restoration Project, including the removal of the Armstrong and Ames Pond Dams and the installation of new fishways, was one of the most successful fish passage improvement projects in coastal Massachusetts.

For the first time in over 200 years, fish can now return to Great Pond and Sunset Lake.

With fish returning to Great Pond for the first time in two centuries, Joyce believes there is no better moment than now to establish a permanent body to protect and manage this ecological success story.

“By creating the Herring & Fisheries Commission, we honor our history, protect our
environment, and prepare our town for a resilient future,” said Joyce. “This is about stewardship, education, and community pride.”

The Braintree Herring & Fisheries Commission, which may be comprised of 3-5 Herring Wardens, will guide conservation and restoration strategies for Braintree’s waterways and fisheries, ensuring that local resources are managed sustainably for future generations.

The Mayor may also appoint at least one but no more than two non-voting youth members of the Commission, who shall be residents of the Town of Braintree, and at least 16 years of age.

On Oct. 21, the Council approved the mayor’s selection of three initial herring wardens to serve on the newly formed commission.

Jeff Madeiras, a long-time advocate for local environmental issues, has been active in Sustainable Braintree, advancing initiatives that protect the Monatiquot River and promote sustainable practices.

Denver Gibbs, a dedicated observer of the herring migration, understands the importance of connecting government with local businesses and community groups to promote conservation education and awareness.

Matthew Sisk has extensive experience in environmental leadership, having served as Deputy Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation and in his current role as a member of the Fisheries & Wildlife Board, where he serves as the At-Large Member to the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Advisory Committee.

“I am immensely grateful for the dedication of these volunteers who are stepping up to protect our ecosystems,” said District 5 Councilor Meredith Boericke. “Their knowledge, enthusiasm, and willingness to literally get their feet wet will be invaluable as we strive to ensure the health and sustainability of our environment, especially for our newly opened riverwalk.”

The Town of Braintree is actively seeking additional members to join the commission, with a particular emphasis on engaging the youth, officials said.