BOSTON – Representative Paul K. Frost (R-Auburn) and Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) announced the Town of Millbury will receive a grant for $150,000 to help manage contamination of the Blackstone River. The grant is awarded in partnership with the Baker-Polito Administration through funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Millbury is set to receive $150,000 to reduce sediment and nutrient loads as well as the quantity and velocity of stormwater flows to the Blackstone River. The plan focuses on bioretention areas to be installed downtown and includes additional trees along Main and Elm Street.

Frost commented, “Making the Blackstone River cleaner and more beautiful is an important priority. Limiting stormwater runoff into the river and planting more trees will certainly help in both those endeavors in Millbury. Preserving and improving conditions is important for many environmental reasons as well as the role the river plays for the region. The Blackstone represents Millbury’s past, present and future and will always be a part of the community’s identity.”

“The Blackstone River is an essential part of the community and economic landscape in Millbury, and the surrounding area,” said Senator Moore. “These funds will help limit the negative impact of stormwater runoff, and ensure that the Blackstone River continues to benefit local residents for generations to come.”

This grant enables communities to implement “Best Management Practices” designed to mitigate the effects of certain unregulated sources of pollution, such as the runoff from rain or melted snow, that deposits contaminants into rivers, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater. The grant initiative is part of the Commonwealth’s continued commitment to address water pollution from stormwater runoff and erosion in projects throughout the state.