INTERNATIONAL COUNTRYSIDE STEWARDSHIP EXCHANGE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF THE 1987 NEW ENGLAND EXCHANGE

Introduction

The Blackstone River runs from central Massachusetts across the border into Rhode Island, emptying into the Seekonk River in Pawtucket. The Blackstone River Valley has a rich social history and extensive physical remnants and ruins. It is unique in its ability to convey the story of the textile industry in New England, the canal-building era, and the diverse immigrant population that came to the valley in search of jobs. In addition to its historic importance, the river has beautiful natural stretches and scenic areas that provide green spaces and opportunities for recreation in the midst of the densely populated valley.

In Massachusetts, a Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park is now being established. In Rhode Island, a three-mile stretch of the towpath and canal have been given to the state as a first step in creating a park. In 1986, U.S. President Reagan signed Public Law 99-647 , establishing the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor in the states of Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Observations

The US National Park Service was directed to work with Massachusetts and Rhode Island and a 19-member Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission to establish a new model for partnerships between federal and state agencies and local communities. The goal of this cooperative, multi-jurisdictional effort is to promote the conservation of significant resources along a greenlined corridor encompassing 40 miles of river, 20 local communities and 2 states.

The National Heritage Corridor is being created at a time when the historic character of the valley’s nineteenth century mill villages, complementary rural landscape and open spaces are being threatened by the ever quickening pace of suburbanization.

The region has also seen years of economic decline, negative self -image and fragmented administrative and political jurisdictions. Massachusetts and Rhode Island have been acting independently in presenting historical interpretation and recreational opportunities to the public.

The Blackstone Valley is blessed with a wealth of physical linkages, many of which emphasize its historical identity. The linear corridor formed by the river, canal and railroad ties the valley together and provides potential for efficient transportation and exciting recreational opportunities.

Key Issues

• Need to build up a shared perception of the valley’s natural and cultural significance as a region.
• Development of an integrated valley-wide interpretive program unifying both states as they pursue state park development.
• Need to take advantages of existing linkages along the corridor.
• Need to coordinate a valley-wide land use strategy.

Recommendations

A unified identity for the valley should be developed supported by a coordinated marketing plan. The image of the valley as a unified entity could be enhanced by a shared logo and common signage in marking cultural, natural and recreational resources. A map showing the region as a whole, with its connections to Boston, Providence and Worcester, would strengthen the sense of a region.

State and local programs should be coordinated under a valley coalition which would unite private and public organizations, promote a common marketing plan and facilitate the sharing of advertising and publicity costs. A common identity could be reinforced by a regular newsletter or series if brochures identifying the area’s resources and emphasizing the linkages that connect the region’s towns.

The Blackstone Valley should take advantage of its natural linkages for access and recreation. Development of these linear recreational experiences could establish a larger constituency of valley-based river users and would help to strengthen the local tourist industry.

US National Park Service and state planning efforts should be integrated to create a unified interpretive strategy. The themes of industry, transport and labor are fitting subjects for educational displays and slide shows. Underlying all of these themes is the fundamental relationship between human culture and the landscape upon which it depends..

Encourage multi-jurisdictional co-ordination through the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission. A mechanism is needed to implement goals and to coordinate the activities of the individual towns, state agencies, and private firms. The commission should have a core staff, but also rely heavily upon ad hoc working parties, drawing on state and local agencies for technical assistance. The commission should provide seed money to encourage responsible and appropriate development while conserving critical landscape resources. The commission should also promote educational programs that heighten public awareness of land use issues and that celebrate the heritage of the valley.

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©2002 Glynwood Center