Merrymeeting Dam Project Progress

February 2026

The Merrymeeting Lake Association recently met with leadership from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) Dam and Water Bureaus to discuss the Merrymeeting Dam project. We want to share a clear update on the project’s progress and how the Board is working to represent the community’s interests throughout this process.  Where the Project Stands DES confirmed that the project remains in an evaluation phase. The engineering concept discussed to date focuses on dam safety requirements and represents one possible approach – it is not a final decision. DES will continue reviewing feasibility, impacts, and alternatives before determining a preferred path forward. At this stage: – DES is currently contracted with an engineering firm to continue assessments of the Merrymeeting Dam through the end of 2026. – It remains uncertain whether this contract will be renewed or whether DES will shift focus in 2027 to another higher-priority dam within the state system. – The NHDES Dam Bureau estimates it will need about $16 million per year over the next 50 years to bring all 276 State-owned dams — prioritizing those classified as “high hazard” — into compliance. – Meeting this funding requirement for repairs depends heavily on federal grants, capital appropriations, proposed new fees, and periodic emergency funding. – The funding gap is the major driver behind current legislative debates about waterfront fees and dam maintenance funds. – Once funding is secured, the project will move into the permitting stage. – No environmental study has yet been conducted. Overall, DES indicated that this is expected to be a long-term process, with multiple stages of review still ahead.  Exploration of Alternatives During our discussion, we asked DES to evaluate whether a double coffer dam could reduce lake drawdown during construction. DES explained that the geography of the lake makes this approach significantly more complex. Unlike locations where full coffer dams have been feasible, the Merrymeeting outlet would require a structure spanning a much wider area (potentially reaching toward the marina), which would make construction highly invasive and substantially increase project costs. Preliminary estimates suggest this approach could add approximately $6–7 million to the project. Because DES must allocate limited funding across multiple high-hazard dams statewide, this alternative is currently considered unlikely to be viable. While this option may not be practical, the MMLA remains focused on identifying and advocating for approaches that minimize impacts to the lake and community wherever possible.  What the MMLA Is Actively Doing The MMLA’s priority is ensuring that community concerns and local impacts are fully understood and incorporated into DES’s ongoing evaluation. During our meeting, we: – Presented a detailed written summary of adverse impacts identified by residents and stakeholders. – Highlighted potential environmental, recreational, economic, and public-use considerations. – Emphasized the importance of prior public and private investments in the lake and surrounding community. We are also working closely with The DuPont Group, which is providing legislative representation and guidance. This partnership allows us to: – Foster political and stakeholder support to ensure alternative approaches receive careful consideration. – Identify appropriate opportunities for engagement at the legislative or policy level. – Evaluate the timing and necessity of future public, legislative, or legal actions if needed. – Stay informed about regulatory milestones and approval pathways. – Monitor funding decisions within the State Dam Maintenance Program.  Strengthening Our Long-Term Readiness As part of our commitment to responsible planning and organizational sustainability, the MMLA has established a Fundraising Committee to ensure strong stewardship of member resources and support the long-term fiscal health of the Association. This committee will explore thoughtful, community-aligned opportunities to support our shared goals, including advocacy efforts and future organizational needs related to the dam project and broader preservation priorities. We will share more information in the coming months – please stay tuned for opportunities to participate and support the work we are doing together on behalf of Merrymeeting Lake.  Our Approach Moving Forward Your volunteer Board remains actively engaged, informed, and committed to representing the interests of the Merrymeeting Lake community throughout this process. We recognize the importance of clear communication and will continue to provide updates as meaningful developments occur. Thank you for your continued support and engagement as we work together to protect and preserve Merrymeeting Lake.