Resources to Improve Stream Crossings

In northern New Hampshire, a state, federal, and non-profit partnership replaced a culvert on Johnson Brook in the Nash Stream Watershed with a 30’ bridge to restore fish passage and improve habitat connectivity. Photos courtesy of NH Fish & Game.

For Safer Communities and Benefits to Fish and Wildlife

Throughout the Northeast, local, state, federal, and tribal agencies partner with communities and landowners to upgrade stream crossings to improve habitat connectivity and reduce the potential for flooding. Here is a short list of technical resources about culvert and bridge design and installation. Visit your state department of transportation or department of fish and wildlife for information particular to your region.

• Report: “Flood Effects on Road-Stream Crossing Infrastructure: Economic and Ecological Benefits of Stream Simulation Designs” (with a case study on the impact of Tropical Storm Irene on communities along the White River in Vermont, shared with permission of the American Fisheries Society)

• New Hampshire: Stream Crossings: Where the River Meets the Road

• Vermont: Flood Ready State of Vermont: Roads and Culverts

• Maine: Stream Smart Road Crossing Pocket Guide

• New York: Stream Crossings: Protecting and Restoring Stream Continuity

• USDA Climate Hub: Storms and Stream Crossings

This Web Extra accompanies the article “Stream Crossings Reimagined” from the Winter 2021 issue of Northern Woodlands. Also see related content from our Spring 2021 issue: “Exploring the Intersection of Climate Change and Land Use.”