Penobscot River Restoration - Restoring Salmon and Increasing Energy

The Penobscot River was once home to abundant populations of migratory fish and rich fishing culture. The first Penobscot dam was constructed in 1834 without any fish passage. Several other dams followed. Dams have prevented fish passage throughout the river, reducing populations and fishing opportunity. The Penobscot Indian Nation has been unable to exercise tribal fishing rights for over 100 years due to a lack of fish.

The Penobscot River Restoration Trust is restoring the Penobscot through collaboration with a hydropower company, the Penobscot Indian Nation, conservation groups, and state and federal agencies. The Trust bought three dams from PPL Corporation, removed two in 2012 and 2013, and are adding a bypass to the third. PPL Corporation is improving fish passage at four additional dams and increasing energy production at six, which will maintain energy production. The effort improves access to nearly 1,000 miles of habitat for salmon, sturgeon, shad, alewife, and more. Restoration also supports healthy populations of birds, mammals, and plants, and revives social, cultural, and economic traditions. Throughout the process, the Trust works with the public, explores economic and community development, and documents outcomes to ensure a win for all stakeholder groups.