25 Years for Areas of Critical Environmental Concern > Currents Fall 2001

During the past 25 years, the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs has recognized the importance of protecting and preserving Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) in Massachusetts. So called, ACECs are places in Massachusetts that receive special recognition because of the quality, uniqueness, and significance of their natural and cultural resources. These areas are identified and nominated at the community level and are reviewed and designated by the state’s Secretary of Environmental Affairs. ACEC designation creates a framework for local and regional stewardship of these resources. Currently, the state shares stewardship responsibilities for 26 ACECs, covering 180,000 acres in 64 communities.

There are two ACECs located within the Saugus River watersed: the Rumney Marshes ACEC (shown above), designated in 1988, encompasses 2,800 acres of saltwater marsh and estuary in Boston, Lynn, Revere, Saugus, and Winthrop. The Golden Hills ACEC designated in 1987 includes 500 acres in Melrose, Saugus and Wakefield.

In celebration of the program’s 25 years, an informative packet of ACEC Program materials is now available. Four fact sheets describe the basics of the program: an ACEC program overview, a guide to preparing ACEC nonimations , a guide for the stewardship of ACECs, a summary of the state regulary effects of ACEC designation, and a map and listing of all designated ACECs. A more detailed guide to state regulations and programs regarding ACECs has been prepared and is available through the Department of Environmental Management. For more information please contact Elizabeth Sorenson at (617) 626-1394 or visit www.state.ma.us/dem/programs/acec.

State Celebrates 25 Years of Protecting “Areas of Critical Environmental Concern”