Partnering for the Commonwealth: Incorporating Natural Resource Priorities into Transportation Planning for a Resilient Landscape

An overview of best management practices and workflows that has allowed the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to incorporate natural resource priorities into transportation planning. These efforts are possible through data sharing and early coordination with a diverse group of stakeholders and natural resource agencies. The results of these partnerships have led to innovations and conservation opportunities; examples ranging from marine reef creation, bat and migratory bird conservation, stream restoration to fish passage. These practices can serve as a model for enhanced coordination between transportation and natural resource agencies.