Maine DEP opposes dam restoration

PORTLAND – The state Department of Environmental Protection issued a draft order that would block the restoration of the historic Scribner’s Mill Dam on the Crooked River in Harrison.

The order said educational and economic opportunities arising from reconstruction of the dam as part of a restoration of Scribner’s Mill are outweighed by potential harm to the landlocked salmon fishery in Sebago Lake. The Crooked River is a key spawning habitat for the salmon.

Plans for restoring the water-powered sawmill have divided historic preservationists and environmentalists. Both have been waiting for a ruling from the DEP on a state permit application.

The agency will accept comments on the draft order until Nov. 26 and plans to issue a final decision around Dec. 24.