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Board of Trustees at Connecticut River Conservancy Board of Trustees We are continually rewarded by the generous gifts of time and skill from members of the CRC Board of Trustees. All are seasoned experts in fields ranging from the environment and education, to legal, corporate business, and finance. The dedicated folks on our Board offer us the know-how and long-range thinking that helps keep CRC moving in the right direction. We cannot thank them enough. Board Members are listed in alphabetical by first name order. Bob Sproull Trustee Computer scientist, rower, and experienced conservationist and board manager. Read More David Deen Trustee Former CRC River Steward + 30 years as a VT legislator advocating for river protections. Read More Leslie Harris Trustee, Board Chair Nonprofit administrator for 25+ years, orchard manager, and outdoor enthusiast. Read More Stephen Gephard Trustee, Vice Chair Fisheries biologist and consultant, formerly with CTDEEP for 42 years. Read More Candace Damon Trustee Creates sustainable urban redevelopment strategies in cities across North America. Read More Geoffrey Habron Trustee Former professor of Fisheries/Wildlife; current focus on equitable climate resilience. Read More Lucas McDiarmid Trustee Legislative staffer and firefighter dedicated to agriculture, public safety, and clean water. Read More Tim Lewis Trustee, Secretary Avid paddler and conservationist retired after a career in manufacturing. Read More Christine Palm Trustee State Rep. in CT and legislative champion for the environment & working families. Read More Janki Darity Trustee 15+ years of experience in regulatory compliance and ethical responsibility. Read More Michael Simpson Trustee Environmental Scientist & Professor Emeritus at Antioch University New England. Read More Tony Judge Trustee Former broadcasting executive and radio, television, & film producer, and wildlife nonprofit board vice-chair. Read More Honorary Trustees Raul de Brigard Land Use Consultant Higganum, CT Ed Gray Author Lyme, NH Susan Merrow Environmental Lobbyist East Haddam, CT Jim Okun Principal, O'Reilly, Talbot, and Okun Ellington, CT Ronald Poltak Retired, Executive Director, NEIWPCC Auburn, NH John Sinton Retired, Professor of Geography, Land-Use and Environmental Planning, Human Ecology Florence, MA Annette Spaulding Retired, Spaulding & Harris Tax Service Bellows Falls, VT Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

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akaplan at ctriver.org 413-834-7953 They/Them < Back Alix Kaplan Content Coordinator Alix joined CRC as Content Coordinator in 2023. Their first experience on the Connecticut River was working with the Invasive Aquatic Plants Crew pulling water chestnut. Previously, Alix worked as an environmental educator in Baltimore, MD and as communications coordinator for a chamber music nonprofit. Alix graduated with a degree in Environmental Studies from Tufts University. They enjoy experimental animation, drumming, and looking under their microscope at various algae specimens. Going on hikes with Alix will take double the amount of time since they must stop and look at everything. akaplan at ctriver.org 413-834-7953 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

And Community Challenge! Canoe, kayak, SUP, and surf ski racers from across the Northeast compete for honors on the Connecticut River between southwest NH and southeast VT. NEPC - New England Paddlesports Championship. New England Paddlesports Championship (NEPC) & Community Challenge The 2025 race has been cancelled, pending new organizers. THANK YOU to all the incredible racers, community partners, volunteers, and sponsors who made this event possible in 2024. You can see all the race results here and read our 2024 NEPC recap . 2025 cancellation message from CRC: The Connecticut River Conservancy is undertaking strategic planning in 2025, and as part of this process we are evaluating both internal resources and outward initiatives. Upon consideration of how our mission supports increased access for the full breadth of communities to the Connecticut River, we have determined that we must step down from being the organizers of the New England Paddlesports Championship (NEPC). We will strive to find new organizers for the event and will instead focus on other paddling and river recreation activities with such details to be shared when available. The NEPC should be considered cancelled for 2025; however, CRC welcomes and would support interested parties who wish to take over hosting responsibilities. CRC continues to be dedicated to clean water, healthy habitats, and river recreation for local communities in the Brattleboro/Hinsdale region and beyond, and we look forward to advancing partnerships that promote equitable access and healthy rivers for all! Connecticut River Conservancy eagerly welcomeed the return of the NEPC – New England Paddlesports Championship – for its 45th year in 2024. Canoe, kayak, SUP, and surf ski racers from across the Northeast competed for honors on New England’s historic Connecticut River between southwest New Hampshire and southeast Vermont. Racers chose to run the 12-mile competitive course or the 5-mile recreational course. There was also a 1-mile community challenge! The course lapped the Brattleboro-Hinsdale island by passing under the Rte. 119 bridges, where spectators cheered on competitors. NEPC is part of the New England Canoe and Kayak Racing Association (NECKRA) Flatwater Point Series. On the Connecticut River @ Norm’s Marina 1347 Brattleboro Rd, Hinsdale NH – just over the river (rain date: the following Sunday, August 4th) with media sponsor: Photos courtesy Kelly Fletcher Photography 12-Mile Competitive Course Competitive paddlers on canoe, kayak, and surf ski will lap the mid-river island three times on a 12-mile competitive “marathon” course. 5-Mile Recreational Course Competitive SUP paddlers will lap a 5-mile course. Recreation Class paddlers, including adult-youth boats, can participate in the 5-mile looped course. 1-Mile Community Challenge A 1-mile Community Challenge is open to all two-person canoe teams. This event is BYOC, bring your own canoe! Ideal for small groups or families. Schedule of the Day 9am – Racer arrival 9am-3pm – Food trucks! 10am – Community partners & on-site fun begins 10:30am – Competitive & Recreational races begin 11am – Community Challenge begins 12:30pm – Crazy Creatures Obstacle Course 2pm – NEPC Awards Ceremony 3pm – See you next year! The morning begins with the races, where over 60 racers will compete in 12-mile and 5-mile loops right off the shore from Norm’s Marina. All are welcome to join in the 1-mile Community Challenge . CRC and local partner organizations will offer on-site activities and info booths for spectators. Plus food & beverage trucks to keep you satiated (J&B Curbside Café 9-3 and Frisky Cow Gelato 11-3). Where to Watch The shores of the river at Norm’s Marina or the Route 119 bridges will provide great views of the race. Parking Ample parking is available to racers, specatators, and Riverfest participants at Norm’s Marina. Overflow parking will be available at the Runnings-George’s Field parking lot across the street. Safety Statement: CRC's staff are assessing river conditions as we approach race day in connection with Norm's Marina, Great River Hydro, climate and flood reports, and local experts. The safety of racers, spectators, and communities is of utmost importance, and we will have two rescue boats from Rescue Inc. on standby throughout the duration of the race. River conditions in the Hinsdale/Brattleboro area are looking good for the 28th. Racers will be notified in the event of any changes to the schedule. Proceeds will benefit CRC's efforts to support local communities in improving recreational access and river habitat like on the Hinsdale-Brattleboro Island after traffic moves to the new bridge (late fall '24) and Bellows Falls at the Saxtons River confluence after removing the Blake-Higgins Dam under Rte. 5 (fall '24). Local Partner 2024 Sponsors Watershed: River: Stream: Community Partners: For questions about race registration, volunteering or the overall event, contact Stacey at slennard - at - ctriver.org . For interest in sponsorship, contact Brett at bmorrison - at - ctriver.org .

< Back Geoffrey Habron Trustee I spent 25 years as a professor teaching Fisheries and Wildlife, Sociology, and Sustainability Science at Michigan State University, Warren Wilson College, and Furman University with a focus on applied and community engaged learning. Since 2021, I have participated in the $5M Carolinas Collaborative on Climate Health and Equity led by NC State University and funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Climate Adaptation Partnership program. My focus is on equitable climate resilience and adaptation having worked with African-American communities in Greenville , South Carolina and Bucksport , South Carolina. I also serve on the Statewide Resilience Plan Advisory Committee for the South Carolina Office of Resilience and the Justice Equity Diversity and Inclusion Committee for the American Society of Adaptation Professionals. View my Relevant Work Summary I earned a Ph.D. in Fisheries Science at Oregon State University with an interdisciplinary research project on Assessment of Community-based Adaptive Watershed Management in Three Umpqua Basin Watersheds. I earned a M.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries from Mississippi State University and a B.A. in Biology with a minor in Caribbean, African, and African-American Studies from the University of Miami. Prior to academia, I served in the Peace Corps in St. Lucia Eastern Caribbean as a Fish Pond Specialist in the Department of Fisheries. As a child I spent 5 years in Thailand and 4 years in Nicaragua. CRC@ctriver.org

fgerhardt at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 ext. 219 He/Him < Back Fritz Gerhardt Conservation Scientist Fritz joined CRC as Conservation Scientist in January 2019 but has been working as an ecologist and conservation scientist since 1987. He completed his B.A. in Religious Studies at Grinnell College, his M.F.S. in Forest Ecology at Harvard University, and his Ph.D. in Community Ecology at the University of Colorado. He has worked, studied, and taught with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Harvard Forest, Dartmouth and Middlebury Colleges, University of Colorado, Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, Vermont Institute of Natural Science, and NorthWoods Stewardship Center. For the past eleven years, he owned and operated an environmental consulting firm that specialized in conducting scientific research that furthered our understanding and conservation of the natural environment in northern New England and adjacent Canada. When not working, Fritz and his family enjoy living, walking, paddling, and gardening in the hills and valleys of the northern Connecticut River watershed. fgerhardt at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 ext. 219 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

Support the Connecticut River Conservancy's hosting of the Wild & Scenic Film Festival! Become a Sponsor of the Wild & Scenic Film Festival in Bellows Falls Join us to support the Connecticut River Conservancy’s (CRC) second Wild & Scenic Film Festival: On Tour. Attendees will watch a series of short films about environmental stewardship, adventure, and fellowship in the natural world. The festival will be shown at the Bellows Falls Opera House on April 30th starting at 6:30pm, with time before the films for festival-goers to connect with CRC and partners, try their luck in a raffle, and learn about CRC’s upcoming summer events. There will also be food and beverages for purchase. The Sponsor Packet is available here. Other Ways to Give Sponsor by Mail Please mail your check, made out to Connecticut River Conservancy, to: 15 Bank Row, Greenfield, MA 01301 Sponsor by Phone To donate by phone or to get assistance with your donation, please contact us at 413-772-2020 More Ways to Give Learn about legacy and workplace giving, sponsorships, stock donations and more with more ways to give. For questions about making your gift to support Connecticut River Conservancy, contact Brett at bmorrison - at - ctriver.org or call 413.772.2020 x218.

aappleton at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 ext. 201 He/Him < Back Ansel Appleton Staff Accountant Ansel Appleton joined CRC’s finance department in September of 2023, assisting with accounts payable and general ledger entries. Before working for the river, he pursued stints as a bartender, a bookkeeper, a traveling slam poet, and a chef. When not filling out IRS forms and expense reimbursements, he can be found reading his long-form articles, or watching the neighborhood squirrels. Ansel is a native of Springfield, Massachusetts, a resident of Greenfield, and a proud product of Greenfield Community College. aappleton at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 ext. 201 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

The Connecticut River Conservancy restores and advocates for clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities to support a diverse and thriving watershed. Hydrilla Hydrilla is an aquatic plant that has earned the title of “world’s worst invasive aquatic plant.” It is listed as a federal noxious weed and can rapidly infest rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. The Connecticut River hydrilla is genetically distinct from other known hydrilla strains and research on this very invasive plant is ongoing. CRC is collaborating with partners to develop new strategies and increase community awareness to reduce the spread of this harmful plant in our watershed. Read On, or Click Below to Jump to a Specific Section What is hydrilla? How hydrilla spreads How hydrilla is being managed Hydrilla resources and reports What you can do to reduce the spread Hydrilla in the Connecticut River Watershed What is Hydrilla? Hydrilla (hydrilla verticillata) is an invasive aquatic species that was first identified in the Connecticut River in 2016 in Glastonbury, CT. Three years later, 2019 and 2020, the Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station (CAES) surveyed the Connecticut River from Agawam, MA to the Long Island Sound, reporting at least 774 acres of hydrilla. See CAES map of invasive plants here . In 2023, the Connecticut River strain was documented in several lakes and ponds in both Connecticut and Massachusetts, which indicates that it continues to spread. Hydrilla can outcompete native species and, as a result, replace habitat for sensitive species, including migratory fish. In recent years, thick mats of hydrilla have crowded out boaters, anglers and those who come to recreate on the Connecticut River. Marinas and municipalities have reported that they can no longer access boat slips and docks due to the severity of the hydrilla infestations, limiting business opportunity. How Hydrilla Spreads Hydrilla propagates through fragmentation, meaning that when it breaks apart, fragments of the plant may float downriver and re-root, creating another mat of hydrilla at a new location. The hydrilla in the Connecticut River is different than any other species of hydrilla found. It does not have tubers on the roots of the plant, as is usual for hydrilla. Because hydrilla spreads through fragmentation, when paddlers, boaters and wildlife become entangled in hydrilla, they can spread the plant to reaches downriver. Additionally, when boaters move from water body to waterbody, hydrilla fragments can remain in or on the vessel and be introduced to new waterbodies that way. Once in a new location, this invasive species repopulates itself rapidly and with strength. What You Can You Do To Reduce the Spread of Hydrilla The first step to slowing the spread of hydrilla is to share this page with friends, family and neighbors who visit the river. When you see hydrilla in the river, avoid the infestation as much as possible so that it does not further fragment and spread. If you see hydrilla north of Agawam, MA, or in a lake or pond, be sure to report it to CRC at the contact information below, or the appropriate state agency. Finally, as you travel between water bodies, it is imperative that everyone cleans, drains and then dries their boats – this applies to kayaks, canoes, jet skis, power boats and trailers. As the age old saying goes — “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY your boat as it travels between different water bodies Hydrilla spreads by fragmentation, and can easily be moved to new waters by hitching a ride on unsuspecting boats. To reduce the risk of spread, be sure to inspect and clean your boat. How the Spread of Hydrilla is Being Addressed Connecticut River Conservancy has been working with municipalities, nonprofit groups, government agencies, businesses, boaters and individuals to address the threat of hydrilla. A group of stakeholders has collaboratively written a 5 Year Management Plan to be updated on an annual basis with appropriate modifications. To learn more about the collaboration around hydrilla, watch this short documentary. An Executive Summary of the 12-Town Environmental Review Team Report conducted by Connecticut Resource Conservation & Development can be found here . The U.S. Army of Corps of Engineers held a virtual meeting in August, 2025, to update the public about the status of the hydrilla demonstration projects and management plans. The recording is available here. Hydrilla Resources Public Information Statement by Connecticut River Partners 5 Year Hydrilla Management Plan Benthic Mat use for Hydrilla Suppression – Report New York Times article about Hydrilla in the Connecticut River U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Field Demonstration website Hydrilla Storymap from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Connecticut River Conservancy's Hydrilla History For questions related to CRC’s hydrilla management program, contact Rhea at kbeerman - at- ctriver.org. Hydrilla management is not currently accepting volunteers, but if you're interested in helping to remove aquatic invasive species visit our water chestnut page or contact volunteer - at - ctriver.org .

Watershed Snapshots Photo Submission for Estuary Magazine Subscription Raffle The Connecticut River watershed is rich with stunning landscapes, vibrant ecology, and the people who call it home, and we know many of you capture this beauty through photography. Now’s your chance to share your favorite shots for a chance to win a prize and some recognition. Connecticut River Conservancy is giving away three 2026 subscriptions to Estuary Magazine! To enter, simply upload up to three photos using the form below (each photo will count as an entry to the raffle). Photos can show nature, wildlife, people, tributaries, wetlands, bridges—anything that you feel represents the watershed we all call home. Deadline: Submit your photos by January 28th , 2026. When winners are selected, we’ll showcase some of the best photos with our watershed community. Please label your files with the photo location and your name. Max image size is 5MB. First name* Last name* Email* Phone* Address* Description, location, and date for photograph(s)* File upload Upload Photo(s) By submitting my photo(s), I confirm that I am the creator and rightful owner of the image(s). I grant Connecticut River Conservancy a non-exclusive, royalty-free, perpetual license to use, reproduce, display, distribute, and publish the photo(s) for purposes related to the Photo Submission Raffle, to highlight the beauty of the Connecticut River watershed, and/or to support and promote the nonprofit’s mission. This includes use in print materials, websites, social media, presentations, reports, and other communications. I understand that my photo(s) may be edited, cropped, or adapted as needed for specific formats, and that they may be publicly displayed. I understand that I will not receive payment or other compensation for the use of my photo(s). I confirm that any identifiable individuals in the photo(s) have given permission for their likeness to be used as described above. I agree to indemnify and hold Connecticut River Conservancy harmless from any claims related to the photo(s). By submitting my photo(s), I accept the terms of this release. Submit

The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) restores and advocates for clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities to support a diverse and thriving watershed. Thank you for supporting our mission. Photo courtesy of Al Braden Hydropower Relicensing 5 hydroelectric facilities on the Connecticut River are in the process of relicensing. This page includes background and historical information, along with updates as they develop. The most recent milestone is that the Connecticut River Conservancy and co-appellant partners have challenged the Water Quality Certifications in NH, VT, and MA for all 5 hydropower projects undergoing relicensing on the Connecticut River. This legal process is continuing into 2026. We have been involved in the relicensing process for over a decade with the aim of getting the best possible outcome for our rivers, wildlife, and communities. The process is not complete until there is a new license in place. Read on for all the details. Hydroelectric facilities use a public trust resource – your river – to produce power. In exchange for this privilege and to mitigate for impacts of the dams, FERC (the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) r equires that hydropower operators provide direct benefits to the public and be protective of the ecological health of the river. The license serves as a public contract that we revisit periodically to examine the impact of the facility on our public trust resource. Latest Hydro News Comments Submitted for Draft Environmental Impact Statements in Hydropower Relicensing FERC Publishes Draft Environmental Impact Statements for Five Hydropower Facilities Environmental Nonprofits File Appeal of VT and NH Water Quality Certifications for Hydropower Facilities The Connecticut River Advocacy Fund CRC has appealed the Clean Water Act §401 Water Quality Certifications in VT, NH, and MA to make sure that the state agencies do their job and protect our river for the next several decades. Your contribution is critical for the Connecticut River’s future. Wins in this court process will result in specific requirements that are written into the federal licenses impacting 175 miles of the river. Support the Advocacy Fund Public Comments Read the Draft Env. Impact Statements. The comment period has passed. Learn More 401 Water Quality Certification Details about the Water Quality Certifications issues by MA, VT, and NH. Learn More Relicensing Overview Get the key details to understand what's at stake for our rivers. Start Here Hydro Resources Learn more about hydropower and related state & federal processes. Learn More Sign Up for Hydro Email Updates We have a hydropower-specific email list to notify you as milestones happen or new resources become available. If you're not already on it, take a moment to sign up here and then return to this page. Five Hydro Facilities Now! The heart of the Connecticut River’s next 50 years. Since late 2012, five hydroelectric facilities in the heart of the Connecticut River have been in the process of renewing their operating licenses in a process known as relicensing. The licenses for two facilities in northern MA and three dams in southern VT and NH will endure for the next 30-50 years and impact more than 175 miles of the Connecticut River. It’s critical that we all speak up NOW in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to influence these operating licenses. The three dams at Wilder, Bellows Falls and Vernon in New Hampshire and Vermont are owned by Great River Hydro (formerly TransCanada), a subsidiary of Hydro-Québec whose sole shareholder is the Government of Quebec. The two Massachusetts facilities, Turners Falls Dam and Northfield Mountain Pump Storage Project, are now separate LLCs under FirstLight Power Services LLC , owned by PSP Investments, one of Canada’s largest pension investment managers. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) last issued licenses for these facilities over forty years ago and all five licenses initially expired in April, 2018. Comments by local communities, the states, individuals, and other stakeholders provide a rare opportunity to improve the health of our river. The current relicensing process for these five hydropower facilities will dramatically affect the health of the river and watershed for generations to come. The public has had numerous opportunities to formally submit comments to the the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), however the deadline for these has now passed. CRC River Stewards Kathy Urffer (VT), Kate Buckman (NH through 2024), Marilla Harris-Vincent (NH starting 2025), and Nina Gordon-Kirsch (MA) are participating in all the formal proceedings related to this relicensing effort. They review reports, prepare CRC comments, and are working to engage the public in the process. They are glad to answer any of your questions or speak to your group about the relicensing. Both Great River Hydro and FirstLight submitted amended final license applications (AFLAs) in December 2020. And on February 22nd, 2024, FERC released a public notice indicating that the Turner’s Falls , Northfield Mountain , Vernon , Bellows Falls , and Wilder hydroelectric project applications have been accepted and are ready for environmental analysis. Link on the project name to see their respective notice. This opened a 60-day comment period through April 22nd, which was then further extended to May 22nd, 2025. This also initiated the Clean Water Act Section 401 water quality certification clock and gave the companies 60 days to file an application with the state to apply for a water quality certificate. Next Steps: This process is not complete until new licenses are in place, which means there is still more to do. We are now in the next phase of the relicensing, which are the state 401 Water Quality Certifications + federal Draft Environmental Statements. Read more about the 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) here. Read CRC's announcements about appeals to state WQCs in Massachusetts , and Vermont/New Hampshire. Read the Draft Environmental Impact Statements issued by FERC . Read the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Turners Falls Hydroelectric Project (P-1889-085) and Northfield Mountain Pumped Storage Project (P-2485-071). Support the Connecticut River Advocacy Fund to empower CRC in the courtroom. A Public Trust Resource Refers to the public trust doctrine that recognizes the public right to many natural resources including "the air, running water, the sea and it's shore." The doctrine requires a state to hold in trust designated resources for the benefit of the people, regardless or private property ownership. Connecticut River Conservancy's Role: CRC’s desired outcomes and priority areas where we are actively advocating for change include: Safe, timely, and effective upstream and downstream fish passage Operational changes at the dams to minimize both upstream and downstream surface water fluctuations to reduce bank erosion and impacts to rare and threatened species Healthy aquatic habitat for river critters Seasonally appropriate minimum flows in the river channel Ecologically compatible and accessible recreational facilities Protection and interpretation of historic and archeological resources Equal consideration of Indigenous People’s traditional cultural properties Hydro Relicensing and the 401 Water Quality Certification: States & Federal Have a Parallel Process All hydroelectric facilities must also apply for and receive within 12 months a Water Quality Certification (WQC) from the state that that facility is located in. Anything the states require in this certificate will automatically be included in the final FERC license. Great River Hydro and FirstLight applied for their 401 WQ Certifications in April 2024, so the states used the following year to conduct public information sessions, issue a draft WQ Certification, and in most cases held a formal public comment period to receive comments on the draft. Read CRC's latest hydropower eblasts: 2/14/26 9/14/25 7/14/25 6/13/25 5/28/25 401 Water Quality Certification This refers to the Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) in which a federal agency (in this case the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission - FERC) may not issue a license to hydro facilities for a discharge from the hydro plant into public waters unless the state or authorized tribe issues a Section 401 water quality certification verifying that the discharge will comply with existing water quality requirements, or waives the certification requirement. After the states issued Water Quality Certifications in April 2025, the Connecticut River Conservancy and co-appellant partners have filed appeals in Massachusetts , Vermont, and New Hampshire challenging the Water Quality Certifications issued by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (VTDEC), and, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) for not going far enough to protect the Connecticut River. As of this update in early 2026, each state is proceeding through their own process. We have a trial date set for Vermont in late summer and are working through a process to come to some agreement or narrow the issues that would go to trial in MA. The appeal process in NH will not begin for at least six months due to a backlog in that docket. Links to the 2025 WQC's can be found here: New Hampshire: Read the Final 401 WQC for Wilder Dam Read the Final 401 WQC for Bellows Falls Dam Read the Final 401 WQC for Vernon Dam Read NHDES' Responses to Comments and Substantive and Minor Revisions Vermont: Read the Final 401 WQC for Wilder Dam Read the Final 401 WQC for Vernon Dam Read the Final 401 WQC for Bellows Falls Dam Massachusetts: Read the Final 401 for the Turners Falls Dam & Northfield Mountain Pumped Storage Station CRC's previously submitted comments on the state 401 Water Quality Certifications are below: For GRH Projects in Vermont: Comments on the application for the VT 401 Water Quality Certification for Wilder, Bellows Falls and Vernon (submitted on 10/1/24) can be found here. Comments on the VT draft 401 Water Quality Certification for Wilder (submitted on 2/6/25) can be found here. Comments on the VT draft 401 Water Quality Certification for Bellows Falls (submitted on 2/26/25) can be found here. Comments on the VT draft 401 Water Quality Certification for Vernon (submitted on 3/16/25) can be found here. For GRH Projects in New Hampshire: Comments on the application for the NH 401 Water Quality Certification for Wilder, Bellows Falls, and Vernon (submitted on 1/31/25) can be found here. Final comments on NH 401 Water Quality Certification for Wilder, Bellows Falls, and Vernon (submitted on 4/11/25) can be found here. For FirstLight Projects in Massachusetts: Comments on the application for the MA 401 Water Quality Certification (submitted on 6/3/24) can be found here. Letter to MassDEP regarding shortnose sturgeon and hydropower (sent on 12/5/24) Read the MA draft 401 Water Quality Certification (issued by MA DEP 1/24/25) here. Comments on the MassDEP 401 Water Quality Certification draft (submitted on 2/24/25). CRC has also made dedicated brochures for each state, which you can find here for Vermont , New Hampshire , and Massachusetts . Public comments submitted to the state during this process can have a positive impact on the long-term benefits for the river! You can learn more about this process in each state here: Vermont New Hampshire Massachusetts CRC's 2024 Livestream about the Water Quality Certification Process We have a hydropower-specific email list to notify you as milestones happen or new resources become available. If you're not already on it, take a moment to sign up here. Video Summary of the VT/NH Se ction of the River The LiveStream below with CRC's Director of Policy and Advocacy, Kathy Urffer, was recorded prior to the comment periods or issuance of Water Quality Certifications, the Fish Passage Settlement Agreement, and the sale of Great River Hydro to HydroQuebec, however the key details remain accurate and it describes the proposed operational change agreed to in 2020. Videos About Our Concerns Recreation Erosion Hydropower Resources Full License Applications submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC): Great River Hydro : Open “80-Amended-Final-License-Applications-AFLA” folder. Most information is in “Exhibit E.” CRC was concerned with information lacking in the AFLA so we submitted comments to FERC in January 2021. FirstLight : Executive Summary Table ES-1 shows inflated cost amounts that include a hidden expected energy revenue loss, whereas Exhibit D for the two facilities show lower costs. Otherwise, the Executive Summary is a concise summary of what the application package includes. CRC was concerned with information lacking in the AFLA so we submitted comments to FERC in January 2021. Stay informed! Subscribe to the FERC docket using the project number (eg. Northfield Mountain Pump Station is P-2485) so you receive updates whenever comments are filed, or FERC issues a determination. Research! Search the FERC eLibrary using the project number (eg. Northfield Mountain Pump Station is P-2485) for previously submitted comments, issuance, and documents. CRC's comments opposing the Low Impact Hydro Institute (LIHI)'s consideration of the inclusion of pumped storage hydropower in its Certification Program. CRC and Appalachian Mountain Club’s recreation recommendations submitted to FERC. Recordings: CRC has been holding a number of virtual events to share information and answer questions. Visit CRC’s YouTube channel to see all past recordings. Background: Hydropower in the Connecticut River Watershed River A large natural stream of water flowing into a channel. Dams undo many of the very features that distinguish a river ecosystem, such as: Variations in flow rate, river bottom sediments, and movement of soil and rocks. Migratory fish runs that bring economic opportunity, sustenance, and nutrients inland. All power generation has impacts on the environment. Hydropower has large impacts on a river. The Connecticut River watershed has dozens of active hydropower dams and two pumped storage projects that are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Their individual and cumulative impacts to our rivers are massive. The Connecticut River is one of the most extensively dammed rivers in the nation. CRC has advocated for removing dams in our watershed that no longer serve a purpose. Thus far, we have aimed to minimize the impacts of operating hydropower dams rather than removal. However, we evaluate each facility on a case by case basis. Dams on the main stem of the Connecticut River alter flows and water levels on more than 324 miles of the river’s 410 mile total length, from the headwaters region all the way down to Holyoke Dam 86 miles upstream from Long Island Sound. They block the movement of migratory and resident fish and other aquatic animals. The dams turn New England’s longest river into a series of warm water reservoirs. They impede natural river flows and cause the accumulation of sediment behind the dams, burying important river bottom habitat. Paddlers have to portage around the dams to continue traveling on the river. Historical uses and artifacts along the river are changed or submerged. It is important to remember the companies aren’t just managing their facilities, nor merely impacting just the water “at” the dams or nearby habitat. Through their presence and operations, hydro facilities manage the whole river. Most hydropower facilities have a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) license with a term of 40-50 years. When these operating licenses come up for renewal during the relicensing process, it is our once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to change how these hydro facilities affect our rivers. With such lengthy terms, the licenses lock-in impacts to the river for generations to come. Therefore, advocating for the river during relicensing is critical! It is a chance to improve access, habitat, and the river’s overall health as an ecosystem. Working with state and federal agencies, municipalities, nonprofits, and local residents, CRC examines the impacts of each facility’s operations on our local waterways and submits formal comments to ensure a balance between hydro operations and protection of the river. YOUR ROLE: You Have A Say! It is important for the public and municipalities to submit comments to make sure that local concerns and desires are voiced during the relicensing process and are responded to as part of the new license. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is interested in maintaining these energy facilities and they are in constant communication with the companies in the course of their relationship as regulators. FERC needs to hear from the public in order to understand and balance local ecological and public access concerns with power production To submit comments on a particular dam or hydro project you first need to know the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) project number. There are many hydroelectric projects in the watershed. Click on the project in the map below to get more details. Comments can be in response to a particular filing or can be a complaint about project operations, safety, or recreation issues in the project areas. You can see comment examples and a way to see all submitted comments here. Project numbers for the five large hydro facilities on the main stem Connecticut River undergoing relicensing now: Wilder Dam, P-1892-030 Bellows Falls Dam, P-1855-050 Vernon Dam, P-1904-078 Northfield Mountain Pumped Storage Project, P-2485-071 Turners Falls Dam, P-1889-085 There are two options for submitting comments to FERC: For a comment up to 10,000 characters, you can submit an e-comment . This DOES NOT require creating an account with FERC. For a longer comment, or to post a comment on your letterhead, you will need to eRegister with FERC to create an account, and then eFile . Please see our Comment Guide for extended comment details. Comments submitted so far can also be found here . CRC's FERC Comment Guide Tributary Facilities Undergoing Relicensing P-10934 Sugar River II ; Newport, NH on the Sugar River P-9648 Fellows Dam, P-9649 Lovejoy, P-9650 Gilman and P-7888 Comtu Fall; Springfield, VT on the Black River P-8615 Fiske Mill ; Hinsdale, NH on the Ashuelot River P-7887 Minnewawa Brook; Marlborough, NH on the Ashuelot River P-7883 Weston; Groveton, NH on the Upper Ammonoosuc River P-2490 Taftsville ; Woodstock, VT on the Ottauquechee River P-2489 Cavendish ; Cavendish, VT on the Black River P-2816 North Hartland; Hartland, VT on the Ottauquechee River P-2839 Great Falls ; Lyndonville, VT on the Passumpsic River P-5261 Newbury ; Newbury, VT on the Wells River P-2392 Gilman ; Lunenberg, VT and Dalton, NH on the Connecticut River P-2669 Bear Swamp ; Rowe and Florida, MA on the Deerfield River CRC's Other Hydro Work For questions about hydropower relicensing, contact the following: Kathy Urffer for Vermont: kurffer at ctriver.org | 802-258-0413 Marilla Harris-Vincent for New Hampshire: mharrisvincent at ctriver.org | 603-503-0419 Nina Gordon-Kirsch for Massachusetts: ngordonkirsch at ctriver.org | 413-772-2020 ext. 216

sheitker at ctriver.org 413-490-9197 She/Her < Back Susan Heitker Chief Development Officer Susan serves as Chief Development Officer at the Connecticut River Conservancy, where she leads fundraising strategy to support clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities across the watershed. She brings a collaborative, relationship-centered approach to development, centering equity, transparency, and shared responsibility in engaging supporters and partners. Susan’s work spans more than 30 years across mission-driven organizations focused on environmental protection, community organizing, and social justice. Her experience includes fundraising strategy, grant writing, and donor relations, with an emphasis on connecting supporters to meaningful, long-term impact. Susan lives in western Massachusetts and enjoys rock climbing, tabletop games, and music. sheitker at ctriver.org 413-490-9197 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate