GARDINER — Four central Maine towns say if the state gets rid of the New Mills Dam, ponds and streams serving hundreds of people will become little more than mud flats.

Officials in Gardiner, Litchfield, Richmond and West Gardiner want to take over ownership of the dam, which for decades has held water back from the Kennebec River.

The dam in Gardiner provides waterfront views and recreational opportunities for more than 500 families. The Gardiner Water District, which owns the dam, is looking for a new owner.

A new state law gives the district the right to breach the dam if a new owner cannot be found.