Class I Usquepaug River, RI

The Pawcatuck River’s tributaries run through rural, wooded landscapes amongst a series of towns that grew up on the banks of the watercourses, historically as mill villages.

The watershed area is approximately 300-square miles, encompassing many high-quality tributaries within seven major drainage areas, including the Queen-Usquepaugh, Beaver, Wood, Chipuxet, Shunock, Green Fall-Ashway, and Pawcatuck Rivers. It is one of the few remaining relatively pristine natural areas along the northeast corridor between New York and Boston.

Development pressure is high in this region as is typical along the Atlantic coastline.

These rivers are especially important because of their proximity to major population centers in southern New England, and provide large expanses of open space and recreation.

Aquatic resources in the watershed are highly prized for recreational activities, particularly paddling, fishing, and birding.

 

For More Information Visit:

Wood-Pawcatuck Rivers Watershed - rivers.gov