he Massachusetts Division of Ecological Restoration (DER) is seeking applications from Massachusetts municipalities for dam removal preliminary design studies. These studies, funded and managed by DER, provide the agency with critical information for future ecological restoration planning and climate adaptation. Likewise, the studies help landowners and partners assess risks and opportunities during early planning phases of potential aquatic habitat restoration projects. DER is interested in dam removal projects that are at an early stage of development and/or decision-making. Selected projects will be eligible to receive technical assistance from DER staff and from qualified contractors, resulting in a brief report, preliminary level design for dam removal, and a construction cost estimate.