Community Corner
Level of Charles River Being Lowered to Prepare for Hurricane Irene
The Charles River can run swiftly in big storms and is being lowered in preparation for Irene.
State officials have decided to lower the level of the Charles River to prepare for the heavy rainfall expected from Hurricane Irene.
The Department of Conservation and Recreation announced Friday they have lowered the level behind the New Charles River Dam to allow for more water storage. Similar action was taken on the Mystic River.
The Charles River catches much of the storm water from Dover and Sherborn and other communities along the 80-mile long river.
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In heavy rains the river can run fast, and cause problems along the banks. In March 2010, the river level rose during a rainstorm and . It washed up by the Watertown Yacht Club.
DCR engineers are also checking pump stations, culverts and storm drains along DCR roads to avoid flooding.
Find out what's happening in Dover-Sherbornwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
State parks, recreation areas and waterfront areas will close at noon on Saturday, the DCR announced. They will try to reopen them by Aug. 30.
Related Topics: Charles Riverand Hurricane Irene
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