Join Us for the Narramissic-Orland River Watershed Migratory Fish Celebration!
Are you ready to witness one of nature's most remarkable journeys? The Town of Orland, in partnership with Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust and Hancock County Soil & Water Conservation District, invites you to our Migratory Fish Celebration on Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Orland Dam (Fish Point Road/Castine Road in Orland Village).
This family-friendly event celebrates the annual return of alewives and other migratory fish to their spawning grounds—a critical ecological event that connects our inland waters to the sea. Witness the determination of these remarkable creatures as they navigate the fish ladder at Orland Dam, continuing a journey their ancestors have made for millennia.
Event Highlights:
Discover the rich history of the Narramissic-Orland River (known as nαlαmә́ssihtәk or "hard to find" in the language of the Penobscot Nation)
Observe herring making their way up the fish ladder in real-time
Learn about alewife ecology through engaging talks, informative visuals, and video presentations
Experience the watershed food web in action as various wildlife gather for this seasonal feast
Explore ways you can participate in watershed stewardship and conservation
This event offers a unique opportunity to connect with our local ecosystem and understand the importance of maintaining healthy waterways for these extraordinary migratory species. Bring your curiosity, your camera, and your sense of wonder!
We look forward to seeing you at the dam!