The Chelsea Collaborative ECO Roots & Shoots Group from Chelsea, Mass. used its $500 Roots & Shoots New England Mini-grant to organize a community canoeing event in Chelsea to bring over 200 youth and adults to the local waterway, Mill Creek.

Canoeing, nature walks and water quality testing were highlights of the event, and the activities kicked-off a community dialogue about the Chelsea waterfront and the issue of water contamination.

Because of the industrial nature of Chelsea’s waterfront, many residents do not know that Chelsea is surrounded on three sides by waterfront. Mill Creek is the only aspect of the waterfront that has the potential to have significant open space and environmental enhancements. Chelsea Collaborative has successfully advocated for the Mill Creek waterfront walkway; implemented salt marsh restoration; designed, fabricated and installed bilingual interpretive signage; and fundraised for, designed and constructed a new park along the Mill Creek. 

Click here to learn about all the 2009 Roots & Shoots New England Mini-grant Recipients.

Learn about our 2010 Roots & Shoots New England Mini-grants here!