Strategic Plan

A future where the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers thrive with clean and swimmable water, healthy ecosystems, and abundant wildlife, which communities value and enjoy for generations.

Protect, improve, and preserve the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers and watershed for all people and wildlife.

2026–2030 GOALS

Improve the ecological health and resilience of the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers and watershed through science, restoration, and policy leadership.

OARS WILL:

Expand scientific monitoring, reporting, and planning to identify threats to river health and recommend targeted remedies.

Identify, implement, and collaborate on priority projects that restore river connectivity, improve habitat and water quality, remove barriers to wildlife movement, and increase climate resilience.

Promote and advocate for laws, regulations, and policies that protect and enhance our rivers and watershed.

Monitor for legal, regulatory, and funding programs to protect surface and groundwater and advocate for stricter wastewater treatment and water withdrawal permitting.

Deepen community connections with the rivers as shared ecological and recreational treasures for all.

Increase access to and use of the rivers for swimming, boating, fishing, and recreation for all.

Heighten public awareness of the key challenges facing our river and watershed and how community members can engage in solutions.

Inspire generations of river stewards throuhg providing engaging and compelling programs, events, and science-based education.

Ensure OARS has the organizational strength and capacity to improve the health of our rivers and watershed.

Secure, increase, and diversify funding to achieve our goals and objectives.

Ensure OARS has the organizational infrastructure, resources, team, and partners to achieve strategic priorties.

Build a trusted and recognized brand that inspires support and clearly conveys OARS’ mission, values, and impact.

~30%

of the SuAsCo rivers watershed is wetlands, crucial for wildlife habitat and water quality

~30%

of water samples in the SuAsCo rivers watershed contain PFAS, leading to increased monitoring and remediation by local authorities and environmental groups

~70%

of dams in the SuAsCo watershed are over a century old, requiring extensive upkeep and presenting obstacles to river restoration and fish passage

>40%

of the land within the watershed is publicly accessible, offering recreational opportunities such as hiking, boating, and birdwatching to the community

~15%

of the land in the SuAsCo rivers watershed is covered by impervious surfaces such as roads, rooftops, and parking lots. This contributes to stormwater runoff and water pollution issues

>40%

of the land within the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers watershed is publicly accessible, providing endless opportunities for paddling, hiking, and wildlife exploration.

Strategic Plan

VISION

MISSION

2026–2030 GOALS

OUR RIVERS

GOAL 1:

OBJECTIVES

OUR COMMUNITIES

GOAL 2:

OBJECTIVES

OARS WILL:

OUR COMMITMENT

GOAL 3:

OBJECTIVES

OARS WILL: