Community Small Grants Program

The Community Small Grants Program was initiated in 2006 by the RSC. Its purpose is to support town efforts that help to protect and enhance the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Rivers and their outstandingly remarkable values. The grant program also aims to engage municipalities and local organizations in protecting the rivers’ resources and building strong local stewardship of the rivers in accordance with The Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Wild and Scenic River Conservation Plan (River Conservation Plan). Any municipal entity (conservation commissions, historical commissions, libraries, schools, recreation departments, public works, etc.) is eligible, as well as community-based non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations. These include local land trusts, garden clubs, art associations, churches, watershed and neighborhood groups. Individuals interested in participating, should partner with one of these town entities or local organizations. Since 2010, there has been an added interest in using the arts to promote the rivers. 

Click here to download the 2025-2026 Community Grants Request for Proposals and Application.

A wide variety of projects have been supported through this program ranging from a water resource inventory, to invasive species management, trail enhancement, school programs, art murals, speaker series, and medical waste collection. See the Bartlett's Landing Ribbon Cutting (2022) and the Middlesex Canal Ribbon Cutting Ceremony (2021).

River Stewardship Council sponsored sculpture as part of Framingham Centre Common Cultural District's "Many Cultures, One Heart" public art project. 

River Ambassadors

The Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Wild and Scenic River Stewardship Council began their River Ambassador Program in 2022. The River Ambassadors, one year-round and one seasonal, work within the eight Wild and Scenic communities and beyond to provide a presence on and around the SuAsCo Wild and Scenic Rivers and promote stewardship and understanding of local riverine resources. They administer projects and activities related to the Wild & Scenic River designation, engage with the river users at popular access sites and on the water, and help monitor conditions on the rivers. Keep an eye out for the River Ambassadors on the river, at river access sites, and at community events!

River Ambassadors Elissa Brown and Ellie Sablak at a community tabling event. 

Partners