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Healthy
Waters

Maine’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands are vital for recreation, wildlife, and community health. NRCM works to restore free-flowing rivers for sea-run fish, defend clean water standards, reduce pollution, and promote strong watershed protections that keep Maine’s waters healthy now and into the future.

Bog Brook

2,000

Miles of rivers and streams opened up to sea-run fish like Atlantic salmon and shad through restoration of the Penobscot River

6,000

Lakes and ponds that provide drinking water, recreation opportunities, and support our economy

3,500

Miles of beautiful coastline supporting commercial fishing, tourism and exceptional outdoor experiences

1972

The year former U.S. Maine Senator Edmund Muskie secured passage of the Clean Water Act

Conservation Groups Applaud Historic Agreement on the Kennebec

Augusta, ME – A coalition of conservation and fishing groups is hailing an agreement between The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and Canadian power company Brookfield Renewable that sets the stage for …

view of river from above on bridge

Areas of Focus

River Restoration

Healthy rivers support healthy fish and healthy communities. NRCM is working with the Wabanaki Nations and other conservation partners to restore the health of Maine’s majestic Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers so that we can bring back sea-run fish, including endangered Atlantic salmon, and support local economies.

River Restoration

Water Quality

Thanks largely to the Clean Water Act, Maine’s great rivers are much cleaner than they were 40 years ago, but we still have a long way to go to restore many of them. NRCM continues to make clean water a high priority.

Water Quality

Lakes & Ponds

Maine’s 6,000 lakes and ponds are an identifying feature of our state. They provide habitat for wildlife, support local businesses in nearby communities, and create lifetime memories for generations of Mainers and visitors. We work to protect these unique waterbodies so everyone can enjoy them for years to come.

Lakes & Ponds

Coastal Waters

Protecting Maine’s iconic coastal waters is necessary for ocean wildlife, fisheries, tourism, and Maine’s economic future. NRCM works to promote healthy coastal ecosystems and reduce pollution entering coastal waters from multiple sources, including stormwater and industrial scale aquaculture.

Coastal Waters

Support Environmental Advocacy in Maine

SUCCESS STORIES

Progress for Maine’s Clean Waters

From playing a leading role in the removal of the Edwards Dam on the Kennebec, which became a national model for success, to advancing efforts on the Penobscot and beyond, our work is helping revive fisheries, improve water quality, and strengthen communities across Maine.

Edwards Dam breaching on Kennebec River 1999