Cape Cod Trout Unlimited March 11, 2026, Presentation --The Fight to Save the West Branch of the Penobscot River

The West Branch of the Penobscot is New England's greatest landlocked salmon river, and it's currently up for a new hydropower license that will shape how it's managed for decades. Trout Unlimited and its partners are trying to ensure that the next set of license rules will keep the river healthy while still allowing power generation--steadier flows, better lake levels, and fewer harmful flow fluctuations that affect fishing, boating and local business. This is a long-term effort to keep a special place special, not just for Maine anglers but for everyone who values these waters.

Steve Heinz is the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Coordinator for the Maine Council of Trout Unlimited and a retired U.S. Navy Commander. For the past seven years, he has been working with volunteers, scientists, and partner organizations across Maine to improve how our rivers are managed, especially where dams affect coldwater fisheries. Most of his recent effort has focused on the West Branch of the Penobscot.

 

Pizza and drinks will be available for all attendees.  We ask everyone to register so we can get a head count.