Projects

Coalition partners are continuously engaged in a variety of on-the-ground projects to implement recommendations and action items from the Presumpscot River Management Plan. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate on initiatives that affect the health of the river and the watershed and that help inform decision making. A summary of recent projects is provided below.

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Water quality monitoring in the lower Presumpscot River (2010 - 2011) - The Casco Bay Estuary Partnership has provided two data sondes, staff time, and funding to secure the services of FB Environmental, Inc. as part of monitoring efforts in the lower main stem. A report summarizing 2010 monitoring results is available by clicking here.

The primary purpose of the monitoring is to determine whether water quality is meeting dissolved oxygen standards for Class C and/or Class B waters. Combined with data collected by US EPA, Maine DEP, Friends of Casco Bay, Presumpscot River Watch, and other entities, the new data will inform discussions about the current Class C designation for the river from Saccarappa Dam to Presumpscot Falls, and Class SC designation in the Presumpscot Estuary.

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Presumpscot Land Conservation: Vision, Values, & Priorities (2010 to present) - a collaborative initiative between land trusts, muncipalities, non-governmental organizations, state agencies, and other stakehders to develop shared vision, values and priorirites for land conservation in the lower Presumpscot River watershed.
Presumpscot Watershed Initiative(2006 to 2009) - a multi-year effort concluding in 2009 to implement water quality improvement projects and outreach programs throughout the watershed.
Watershed signs (ongoing) - created and posted at prominent stream crossings to strengthen ties to the landscape.
Gravel pit study- sheds light on the impacts of development on local natural resources.
Presumpscot River watershed tours (periodic) - sharing lessons learned and current issues with watershed stakeholders.
Trailhead information kiosks (ongoing) - provide an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to learn about the cultural and natural history of the river.
Sebago to the Sea Initiative (2007 to present) - PRWC discussions in 2007 & 2008 led to the development of the Sebago to the Sea initiative, a multi-year effort now coordinated by the Presumpscot Regional Land Trust. The project goal is to establish a contiguous recreational trail from Sebago Lake to Casco Bay connecting trails in Standish, Windham, Gorham, Westbrook, Portland and Falmouth.