Join us for a walk along the Presumpscot River to learn about its history and how the Clean Water Act has been used and will continue to be used to restore its health.
What: An Evening Along the Presumpscot River; the “River of Many Falls” and the Clean Water Act
When: Wednesday, June 29, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. (rain date is Thursday, June 30)
Where: Westbrook, Maine. We will meet where the Westbrook River Walk path crosses Bridge Street, near the corner of Bridge and Main Street in downtown Westbrook. From there, we will take a leisurely walk up the bank of the river, approximately ½ mile (one mile, round trip). Be sure to wear your walking shoes, as the path is mostly dirt, stones, and grass.
Parking: There is free, public parking throughout downtown Westbrook, including the temporary lot at the corner of Bridge and Main Street.
Public Transportation: METRO’s Route #3 and Route #4 using the Westbrook Hub Shelter
The Presumpscot River drains approximately two-thirds of the Casco Bay watershed, and flows through diverse landscapes, from rolling countryside to urban centers. The river has a sordid history of industrial pollution, but thanks to the tireless efforts of our partners at Friends of the Presumpscot River and others, its waters have rebounded dramatically.
We will begin our walk at Saccarappa Falls in downtown Westbrook. Casco Baykeeper Ivy Frignoca will open the event with an overview of work to improve and protect the health of the river, including upgrading its Clean Water Act classification. Then Friends of the Presumpscot River board members Will Plumley and Michael Shaughnessy will lead us on a leisurely and short walk up the banks of the river, with stops along the way to describe its long history of industrial pollution, the many efforts to support fish passage, and the inspirational legacy of Abenaki leader, Chief Polin. We hope you will join us!
Let us know you plan to attend by emailing keeper@cascobay.org. We will keep you informed if we need to reschedule the walk to the rain date.
