Merrymeeting Dam Project Update (1/2026)

January 2026

The project proposed by NHDES to repair the Merrymeeting dams has drawn significant interest, and the Merrymeeting Lake Association understands the passion and concerns many of you share. The decisions involved will affect Merrymeeting Lake and our neighbors downstream, and they will carry long-term ecological, economic, and recreational implications. The MMLA Board is committed to approaching the work of protecting our lake by balancing urgency with responsibility.

We remain focused on careful stewardship of member resources and are proceeding deliberately by gathering information, defining objectives, and ensuring accountability before committing Association funds. This measured approach protects the trust our members place in us and supports sound decision-making.

Recent steps – including engaging legislative representation, initiating dialogue with state officials, and prioritizing clear communication with members – reflect this commitment to transparency and diligence. We will continue exploring how the current NHDES plan may be amended to reduce impacts to our lake, its watershed, and those living in our community. These efforts are intended to clarify options and represent the interests of our members.

We appreciate your continued engagement and encourage you to reach out with questions or concerns as we move forward. Open, respectful dialogue remains essential as we work together toward our shared goal: to preserve and protect Merrymeeting Lake for generations to come.

Additional Resources:
To view the initial NHDES investigation and assessment report, click here.
To view a full copy of the 12/3/25 NHDES presentation slides, click here.
To view the replay video of the 12/3/25 NHDES meeting, click here.