West Branch of the Farmington River, Connecticut
Managing Agency:
National Park Service, Northeast Regional Office
Designated Reach:
August 26, 1994: The segment of the West Branch and mainstem extending from immediately below the Goodwin Dam and Hydroelectric Project in Hartland to the downstream end of the New Hartford/Canton town line. March 12, 2019: From the downstream end of the New Hartford/Canton town line to the confluence with the Nepaug River.
Classification/Mileage:
August 26, 1994: Recreational — 14.0 miles; Total — 14.0 miles. March 12, 2019: Recreational — 1.1 miles; Total — 1.1 miles. Aggregate Totals: Recreational — 15.1 miles; Total — 15.1 miles.
RELATED LINKS
Farmington River (National Park Service)
Farmington River Coordinating Committee
Farmington River Management Plan
Photo Credit: Tim Palmer
West Branch Farmington River
In August 1994, Congress added 14 miles of the Farmington River's West Branch to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System; another 1.1 miles were added in March 2019. These exciting milestones in the river's history recognize the Farmington's beauty and character and ensures that it will be enjoyed by generations to come.
Every year, thousands of people canoe, kayak and fish the waters of the Farmington, as well as visit the state parks, forests and historic mills that dot the river's edge. The river is an important habitat for wildlife, such as otters and bald eagles, and the Farmington River Valley is currently the only place in Connecticut with nesting bald eagles. In addition, the Atlantic salmon may return to the river after an absence of decades. Recreational value, rare wildlife, outstanding fisheries and a rich history are some of the outstanding features of the Farmington. It is managed through a partnership among local, state and federal interests.
