Hollis Select Board Transparency Archive

07af01dcfa8462d1b590287520b0

FW: MDMR Comments on Temporary Headpond Variance Request for Bar Mills Project (P-2194)

From

• Bennet Flinner <[email protected]>

To

• Mike Harnois <[email protected]>
• Jack Rogala <[email protected]>
• Roger Hicks <[email protected]>
• Daniel Yarumian <[email protected]>
• Danielle Bradbury <[email protected]>
• Richard Morin <[email protected]>

Date

Fri, Jun 12, 2026 · 11:59 a.m. ET

• 20260612_MDMR Comments Bar Mills Headpond Variance.pdfNot posted

  The original PDF is not in this public copy. The words copied from it are below.

  Read from the file

  June 1 2, 2026 MDMR Comments on Bar Mills Temporary Headpond Variance On May 13, 2026, Brookfield White Pine Hydro LLC (BWPH) provided notice to agencies and stakeholders describing plans to lower the hinged flashboards at the Bar Mills project beginning October 1, 2026. BWPH characterizes this action as a temporary variance, anticipated to remain in place through the summer of 2027 or until dam removal activities begin. The Maine Department of Marine Resources appreciates BWPH ’ s continued coordination as planning for future dam removal advances. From MDMR’s perspective, our primary focus is the protection and enhancement of sea - run fish resources and the long - term ecological benefits associated with restoring free - flowing river co nditions. Within that context, we generally support headpond drawdowns as part of dam removal preparation where they can contribute to shoreline stability and revegetation. We offer the following as a suggestion for BWPH ’ s consideration. As proposed, an October 1 drawdown occurs late in the growing season in Maine, leaving limited time for native riparian vegetation to establish before winter. This can leave exposed banks more vulnerable to ice effects and spring high flows without vegetat ive stabilization, potentially increasing short - term erosion during the first year. If Brookfield finds it feasible, MDMR suggests considering whether the drawdown could instead occur in early summer 2027, for example around June 1. This timing would allow for a full growing season of revegetation, which can improve bank stability and sup port longer - term restoration outcomes associated with eventual dam removal. While this approach can increase the importance of invasive species management, that is typically addressed through a targeted revegetation plan using native riparian plantings and active site management, which is a common component of dam removal projects and consistent with prior MDMR recommendations. MDMR also encourages continued coordination with the Towns of Hollis and Buxton as planning advances. Early communication will help reduce recreational impacts, maintain public safety, and support a smooth transition for local residents and river users. Thank you for the opportunity to review this proposal. We appreciate BWP H ’ s continued engagement and willingness to consider measures that support long - term restoration success and shared community interests.