Protecting Merrymeeting Lake: Key Updates from NHDES (12/2025)

December 2025

For 78 years, the Merrymeeting Lake Association has been dedicated to protecting the lake we all love. Merrymeeting Lake and its surrounding watershed are irreplaceable natural resources, and we continue to work to preserve them for today and for future generations. Now, more than ever, advocacy for the best interests of our lake and community is essential.

Last week, representatives from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) provided information on proposed dam repair solutions and potential impacts. A copy of this presentation can be found here. Members of our Board attended the meeting, which drew an impressive turnout of residents from both New Durham and Alton, and are carefully reviewing the information presented.

Please know the MMLA is committed to ensuring that long-term lake health, environmental impacts, and community concerns are fully understood and represented as this process moves forward.

We look forward to sharing the MMLA’s position and next steps in the new year. In the meantime, we sincerely appreciate your engagement, patience, and support as we work to protect the long-term health and future of Merrymeeting Lake and the Merrymeeting River community.

To view the initial NHDES investigation and assessment report, click here.
To view a full copy of the NHDES presentation slides, click here.
To view the replay video of the NHDES meeting, click here.