About Saco river corridor commission
The Saco River Corridor Commission: Protecting Public Health and Safety in Maine
The Saco River Corridor Commission is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to protecting public health and safety, as well as the quality of life for the state of Maine. The commission was established in 1973 by the Maine Legislature to manage and protect the natural resources within the Saco River watershed.
The Saco River is one of Maine's most important natural resources, providing drinking water for over 200,000 people and supporting a wide range of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. The river also plays an important role in supporting local economies through tourism and outdoor recreation.
The commission's mission is to promote responsible use of the river while protecting its natural resources. This includes managing land use along the river corridor to prevent erosion and sedimentation that can harm water quality. The commission also works with local communities to develop plans for managing growth while preserving open space.
One of the key ways that the commission achieves its mission is through education and outreach programs. These programs are designed to raise awareness about issues related to water quality, land use management, and conservation practices among residents living within or near the Saco River watershed.
In addition to education programs, the commission also provides technical assistance to municipalities within its jurisdiction. This includes helping towns develop zoning ordinances that protect critical areas along rivers from development or other activities that could harm water quality or wildlife habitat.
Another important function of the commission is monitoring water quality throughout its jurisdictional area. This involves collecting data on various parameters such as temperature, pH levels, dissolved oxygen levels, nutrient concentrations (nitrogen & phosphorus), bacteria counts (E.coli), etc., which are then used by scientists at state agencies like DEP (Department Environmental Protection) or USGS (United States Geological Survey) for assessing overall health status or identifying potential sources pollution problems.
Overall, the Saco River Corridor Commission is an essential organization that plays a critical role in protecting the natural resources of Maine. Through its education and outreach programs, technical assistance to municipalities, and monitoring of water quality, the commission is helping to ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and benefits of this important river.