Conservation Updates

March 9th, 2022

The Andover Conservation division has submitted an RDA application is for a boat rack and improvement to the existing boat launch and trail at the Burnham Oxbow in the Shawsheen Village/Sacred Heart Reservation.

This area is near Penguin Park, the Balmoral track, and directly adjacent to the Faerie Garden and the Scout boardwalk that is popular with a variety of outdoor enthusiasts.  

The project proposes the installation of a new wooden “Allagash cross” rack that can hold 12 kayaks or canoes. The three-tiered cross is supported by two 6x6” timbers cemented in the ground. 

Crushed stone will be used to stabilize the currently eroding rivers edge and a portion of the trail near the boat rack. The rack will occupy approximately a 10’x10’ area itself and will be set back beneath the existing tree-line. The current vegetated cover in the area is dominated by invasive Japanese knotweed, which will be removed.

The proposed impact to the Riverfront Resource Area is minimal. The eroding area of the riverbank will be stabilized with rock, and there will be two (2) roughly 10"x10" (about the size of a sheet of paper) excavations for the canoe rack supports.  

The crushed stone will protect this small portion of the riverbank and provide safe footing for those who are launching watercraft. The rack requires a minor excavation - just enough to support the posts - and the loose soil will be removed from the location.  

The boat rack will provide an amenity and improve access to a particular portion of the river that is currently difficult to access. The rack will benefit the public by allowing river access without the need to car-top and do an extensive carry to the launch.

For more information, please contact the Conservation Office at 978-623-8630.