Notice of Funding Opportunity Dam Removal Preliminary Design Services - Fiscal Year 2026

Background
The Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) is seeking applications from Massachusetts municipalities for dam removal preliminary design studies. These studies are critical for future ecological restoration planning and climate adaptation, helping landowners and partners assess opportunities and constraints during early planning phases of potential aquatic habitat restoration projects.

The DER is interested in dam removal projects that are at an early stage of development and/or decision-making. Selected projects will be eligible to receive technical assistance from DER staff and DER-led contracted technical services from qualified vendors.

Work Details
The preliminary design studies will include the following components:
- Site visits by a qualified engineering consulting firm
- Topographic and bathymetric surveys
- Sediment quality testing for potential contaminants
- Assessment of sediment quantity in the impoundment
- Hydrologic and hydraulic modeling
- Preliminary design development
- A technical report summarizing the results of the study, including an estimate of cost for necessary future design and permitting as well as for removal.

Municipalities may apply for more than one dam site but must submit an individual application for each. If a single dam site contains multiple associated structures, they can be submitted as a single project application.

Period of Performance
The Request For Response (RFR) is expected to be released in Summer 2025, with status designation awards for selected dam sites commencing in state Fiscal Year 2026.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed within the boundaries of Massachusetts municipalities.

Bidder Requirements
Eligible applicants include Massachusetts municipalities such as towns, cities, districts, and commissions. A municipality may apply on behalf of another entity for a dam located within its boundaries or for a dam that would provide direct benefits to the applying municipality. Landowner permission for dam/site access is required.