Group will buy dams, restore wild fish runs (Penobscot River, Maine)

[jpak]

http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=159439&ac=PHnws

An ambitious plan to restore fisheries in the Penobscot River is shifting into a new phase, now that organizers have raised $25 million to buy three dams that stand in the way of salmon and other fish.

"We have the money to buy the dams. This obviously puts us in a very good position," said Laura Rose Day, executive director of the Penobscot River Restoration Trust.

The plan ultimately calls for removing two of the dams and creating a fish bypass at the third. That work would cost an additional $25 million, which has not yet been raised.

The completion of the initial fundraising efforts means organizers can focus now on plans for removing or modifying the dams once they complete the purchase this year.

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