Kennebec River Dams

The City of Waterville is aware of the recent agreement involving the purchase of four hydroelectric dams along the Kennebec River—Lockwood, Hydro-Kennebec, Shawmut, and Weston—by The Nature Conservancy. These dams, located in Waterville and neighboring communities, have played a significant role in regional energy production and river management.

The Nature Conservancy has announced plans to eventually decommission and remove the dams as part of a long-term ecological restoration initiative. Their goal is to improve fish passage and restore natural river flow, reconnecting hundreds of miles of habitat for sea-run fish species.

During the transition, Brookfield Renewable will continue to operate the dams, and a new nonprofit—the Kennebec River Restoration Trust—will be established to oversee future restoration efforts.

The City recognizes that this project may raise questions and concerns within the community, particularly regarding environmental, economic, and recreational impacts. We are committed to staying informed and engaged throughout the process.

Waterville will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.

Resources: