Camden’s “Jane’s Walk” visited four of the dam sites on Megunticook River, Saturday, May 4, 2024. The walk showed a dramatic waterfall at each site except at Montgomery Dam. There has been an ongoing debate about the future of these dams and their waterfalls. This walk was led by volunteer members of “Save the Dam Falls,” which is offering a counter-argument to the Town of Camden’s campaign to remove the dams, millponds, and waterfalls, particularly the spectacular Montgomery Falls at the head of the harbor.
What a great response and wonderful event with 70 people. And one osprey chirping up above us in a tree. He was rooting us on!
The town has dedicated a $1.6 million fund to run a PR campaign to design and promote dam removal. Depending on the outcome, this could potentially be your last chance to visit the Knowlton Street waterfall, the Knox Mill dam and waterfall, and the gorgeous Montgomery Dam and waterfall.
These treasures mean a great deal to the citizens of Camden and should not be removed casually. The walk leaders were well prepared in the historical, wildlife, and engineering aspects of the river and how the proposed changes will impact them.
About Jane’s Walk
Jane’s Walk is a very special event to be part of. On Saturday, May 4, 2024, 50 Jane’s Walks were held in 35 towns in Maine, including Camden.
This is the third year Maine communities have officially participated in the global Jane’s Walk celebration, inspired by community activist Jane Jacobs, who spent her life (1916-2006) using grassroots advocacy to protect neighborhoods from urban renewal and emphasizing the power of individuals to influence the places they live. Her first project was preventing the building of a highway through Greenwich Village, NY. Today, her principles represent the participatory planning approaches that have been embraced in communities around the world.
Jane’s Walk ME is co-coordinated by Friends of Congress Square Park, Greater Portland Landmarks, Maine Downtown Center, Portland Downtown, and Maine Preservation.
Founded in 1972, Maine Preservation promotes and preserves historic places, buildings, downtowns and neighborhoods—strengthening the cultural and economic vitality of Maine communities.
