PRESUMPSCOT 2040! SEEKING PUBLIC INPUT!
URGENT REQUEST
This February 2, 2026 there will be two public forums at 2:30-5p & 6:30-9p at the Westbrook Community Center for the purposes of gathering how we value the river and the watershed and our thoughts and ideas relative to its future existence and uses.
A number of organizations have a vision of: “a more free-flowing natural Presumpscot River, from Sebago to the sea, with more sea-run fish, cleaner water, and an abundance of nature-based recreation.” Do you share such a vision?
For many years the Presumpscot River has been seen as a second rate river; beyond hope for revitalization due to its dead fishery, extensive pollution and high number of dams. For too long the river has been seen as a resource to be controlled and utilized for power, pollution and profit with recreation as a by-product. Due to the diligent work of FOPR and others this vision has been steadily changing.There is a growing vision to see the Presumpscot as a community asset which has its greatest value in high water quality; free flowing rapids and falls; native sea-run fish and habitat; and high quality natural scenic and recreational opportunities.
If you would like to see the river progress in this direction PLEASE join us and add your voice. This community forum is an opportunity to engage in the future of the river. IT IS TIME TO THINK BIG. To look at the river not in terms of limitations but in terms of possibilities. What has been done in restoration and building awareness and connection to the river in recent years has laid the groundwork for this effort.
Many that attend will learn for the first time what they have in their backyard. There will be an overview of what this river was, how it was destroyed, and how it can be reborn. Finally, there will be time for the public to offer input in smaller focused groups on topics such as Free Flows, Water Quality, Recreation, Community Development, and Fish/Habitat.
Whether or not you are attending, we request your valuable feedback by clicking on THIS LINK, available through the end of February.
This effort is initiated and funded by Casco Bay Estuary Partnership, with co-sponsoring organizations: Friends of Casco Bay, Friends of the Presumpscot River, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, Presumpscot Regional Land Trust, Sebago Clean Waters, Town of Windham, Maine, and Trout Unlimited.
FMI, CLICK HERE TO REGISTER for this tremendous opportunity for the river and its communities. We want to hear your thoughts and stories.
As always, thank you for your support.
Michael Shaughnessy, President
