A series that explored the future of Maine’s deteriorating dams as they face growing threats from climate change and fall out of favor for public investment.
What happens with Maine’s remaining dams could have dramatic implications for the communities that have been shaped by these structures for centuries and for the state’s renewable energy portfolio. With a number of federal licenses set to expire and smaller, state-regulated dams requiring immediate action, Maine has a unique opportunity to influence the state’s network of dams. Each dam’s fate has a cascading effect upstream and downstream. As debates play out across the state, the Wabanaki Nations, local communities, and environmental nonprofits are trying their best to leverage their influence to decide the dams’ futures.
All Stories:
Four takeaways from our series on Maine dams
‘A massive undertaking’: Dissecting the latest decisions on Maine dams
Underfunded and understaffed, Maine’s dam agency does what it can to keep the aging infrastructure safe
Maine dams face an uncertain future