River Voices

We are excited to announce the publication of River Voices: Perspectives on the Presumpscot published by North Country Press. The book includes a chapter by Dr. Rachel Bouvier, “The Economic Value of a Restored Fishery on the Presumpscot River.”

In describing the chapter Dr. Bouvier said, ” I discuss the economic value of restoring a native alewife run to the Presumpscot River, one of the most heavily dammed rivers in the northeast. The chapter discusses traditional economic values such as increased property values and tourism, as well as less well measured – but no less important – values such as community revitalization, quality of life, and civic pride. It is not often that we get a second chance at something, from an ecological perspective. But just last year, one of the dams that has been impeding alewife from returning to the Presumpscot was removed. It heralds a new era for the fish, for the city of Westbrook, and for the environment.”

The publishers website describes the book as “a celebration of a river, a vision of stewardship and caring, with chapter topics ranging from geology to Native American history to fighting for fish passage. Illustrated throughout with original and historical works of art, this book embodies the concept of managing a river through appreciation of all of its attributes and aspects. If you live in this watershed you will appreciate it.  And if you live somewhere else, this is a model for caring for a river.”

For more information or to purchase a copy of the book visit North Country Press.