Hancock County Soil & Water Conservation District and partners celebrate World Fish Migration Day (May 25) by inviting community members to participate in two watershed events at a critical time for our region’s waterways:
1-Union River Watershed Summit (May 16-17) – A Momentous Gathering
Theme: “Looking Backward/Looking Forward”
Hosted by: HCSWCD, Green Ellsworth and partners
Why Attend: The recent Supreme Court ruling has created unprecedented possibilities for the future of the Union River dams — more so than any time since they were built in 1907. Your input is vital!
Highlights:
-Virtual session exploring pre-dam river history (May 16, 4 p.m.). Register at: https://uregina-ca.zoom.us/meeting/register/nN99BopWRtCmr82jpTnc2g.
-In-person programs at Moore Community Center (May 17, 9:30 to 3:30 p.m.)
-On both days, Dwayne Shaw, executive director of the Downeast Salmon Federation, and members of the Ellsworth Historical Society will present on the history of the Union River dating back to pre-1907.
-Tour of Union River Dam’s historic powerhouse and operational fish lift courtesy of Black Bear Hydro Partners (a subsidiary of Brookfield Renewable) (May 17, noon).
-Economic impact study preview by Frenchman Bay Conservancy.
-Indoor exhibition with watershed partners and featuring a 20-foot brook trout art installation by Joey Rizzo.
-Free brown bag lunch along the Union River
2-Narramissic-Orland Migratory Fish Celebration (May 24)
Hosted by: The Town of Orland with partners Great Pond Conservation Trust and Hancock County Soil & Water Conservation District
Date & Time: Saturday, May 24 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Fish Point Road/Castine Road, Orland Village
Main Topic: Narramissic-Orland Watershed Stewardship, Past, Present, and Future
Highlights:
-Observe river herring migration up the Orland dam fish ladder.
-Visit educational displays on migratory fish ecology.
-Wildlife viewing opportunities (binoculars recommended).
Now more than ever, watershed residents have a meaningful opportunity to shape the future of our local waterways. We strongly encourage participation from all communities within the watershed to allow for diverse perspectives in informing these important discussions.
For Union River Summit details: www.greenellsworth.org/community-events or contact Mary Blackstone (207-667-8878).
For Narramissic-Orland event information: Contact Town of Orland (https://townoforland.org/), or Hancock County Soil & Water Conservation District (207-667-8663)
Your voice matters! Join us in celebrating and shaping the future of our valuable water resources.
