Concord River, at North Bridge NPS

On October 14 you can join conservation and volunteer groups from across Metrowest in gathering at the Old Manse and Minute Man National Historical Park in Massachusetts to celebrate the work of partners to preserve and enhance the Sudbury, Assabet and Concord Wild and Scenic River.

In 1999, Congress designated 29 miles of these rivers as Wild and Scenic; critical to the designation and their long-term protection was the strong local support and commitment to preservation as expressed by the communities along the rivers.

“The story of the Sudbury, Assabet and Concord Wild and Scenic River is one of rich partnerships among community organizations and volunteers, state and federal agencies, coming together to protect and promote water quality and the other remarkable resources of the rivers. This event seeks to celebrate everyone out there who has been part of that story,” says Sarah Bursky, community planner with the National Park Service Wild and Scenic Rivers program.

The historic significance of these rivers cannot be overstated, made famous by the action of April 19, 1775, when colonial militia encountered British Regulars in an exchange that has shaped the course of history. Further penned into the nation's conscious by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “Concord Hymn,” the North Bridge has become an international destination for visitors who seek out inspiration of this most venerated site.

“We, as a people are fascinated by the stories our rivers tell. By 1999, the untold stories of the Concord, Sudbury and Assabet rivers were recognized with the creation of the wild and scenic river. Now, the full story of these rivers and their impact on Eastern Massachusetts can be told,” said BJ Dunn, superintendent of Minute Man National Historical Park.

At 3:30 p.m. on October 14, Congresswoman Nikki Tsongas will join local conservation partners to honor the incredible work of towns and partners along the river over the last 20 years in a ceremony at the Old North Bridge. There will also be a celebration from 2-5 p.m. at Minute Man National Historical Park and the Old Manse that will celebrate “Conservation in Action” with special explorations and talks, raffles and refreshments.

The rivers are a beloved community resource, drawing paddlers, hikers, fishermen, boaters, and the thousands who enjoy the historical and literary richness of historic sites such as the Old North Bridge at Minute Man National Historical Park and the Old Manse house. The Wild and Scenic River is managed in partnership through a locally established River Stewardship Council with representatives from each of the eight shoreline communities, state and federal agencies, and two regional conservation organizations; the group meets monthly to discuss river issues, allocate funds for special community grant projects, and engage in outreach and education.

On October 2, 1968, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. In addition to celebrating the 50th anniversary of this Act, the Sudbury, Assabet and Concord will kick off celebration of its 20th anniversary year in 2019.

For a full listing of event details, please visit www.sudbury-assabet-concord.org.