Phase II of the Great Lakes Aquatic Connectivity and Stream Resiliency Project within the Genesee and Black River watersheds addressed detrimental impacts of poorly designed culverts which act as barriers to aquatic organism passage, contribute to water quality impairments, reduce habitat for brook trout and contribute to flooding, public safety concerns and infrastructure damage. The initiative leverages and aligns with habitat restoration priorities under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, state grant funding, and hazard mitigation programs. Key goals for Phase II include:

1. Developing a monitoring strategy to assess current stream conditions and track climate change impacts in priority areas like Wiscoy Creek and South Moose River.
2. Assisting at least two municipalities in developing conceptual designs and grant applications for right-sizing culverts to reduce flood risk and improve aquatic connectivity.
3. Communicating project outcomes to stakeholders to advance the use of NAACC resources and modeling for culvert enhancement projects.