Media Photo-Op: July 17, 2017 (Westbrook, Maine)—Back by popular demand, Friends of the Presumpscot River (FOPR) will host the Second Annual Community River Float & Cookout on Thursday, July 20, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., kicking off the non-profit group’s 25th Anniversary celebrations. The event will take place at the Brown Street Boat Launch in Westbrook at the Presumpscot River Trailhead connecting Riverton Trolley Park to Warren Avenue.
Professional river guides from Portland Paddle and Maine Path and Paddle Guides will have canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards available to try for free. Families and kids are also welcome to join members of FOPR and the Opportunity Alliance for a neighborhood cookout.
“This event is such a gift to this community! It’s a no-cost opportunity for families to kayak, canoe and paddleboard, as well as enjoy a meal with their neighbors,” said Chris Gorman, Director of Opportunity Alliance’s Resident-Led Community Building Program. “There’s nothing more powerful than building relationships while having fun, and as we learned last year, this event is tons of fun!”
Following the Community River Float & Cookout, FOPR will announce additional free events to take place from August through October, including a professionally guided river tour; the second annual River Talks series—educational lectures exploring the river’s history, recreational opportunities and conservation initiatives; and other events commemorating Friends of the Presumpscot River’s 25th Anniversary.
“We are excited to celebrate 25 years advocating for the Presumpscot River with our members and people living in communities nearby, as well as anyone who wants to learn more about the largest source of fresh water flowing into the Casco Bay,” said Michael Shaughnessy, FOPR’s Board President. “The purpose of these events is to connect people to this vital natural resource and demonstrate all that a restored Presumpscot River will bring to its surrounding communities, including environmental and economic benefits, vibrant main street areas, recreational opportunities and a healthy fishing industry, Shaughnessy added.”
Background: Celebrating 25 Years Advocating for Our River, Friends of the Presumpscot River (FOPR) is a non-profit organization supported primarily by grants, donations and membership dues. Founded in 1992, FOPR’s mission is to protect and improve the water quality, indigenous fisheries, recreational opportunities and natural character of the Presumpscot River. For more information, visit presumpscotriver.org.