Migration in Motion: Alewives and the Fish Ladder at Damariscotta Mills

Did you know that alewives spend part of their lives in the ocean and part in fresh water lakes and ponds? They are an anadromous fish, meaning they that they live in the ocean but travel up streams and rivers to spawn. Unlike salmon, they do not die after laying their eggs but return to the sea. Human activities, such as the construction of dams, has inhibited alewife migration in many waterways. In recent years, some communities have been working to restore fish passage by removing obstructions or building or improving fish ladders. The fish ladder in Damariscotta Mills has an interesting history, and it is a tremendous story of what a few concerned citizens can accomplish – albeit with a great deal of work over the years! Join naturalist Sarah Gladu to learn about alewives, tour the ladder, and see the fish in full migration. If we are lucky we might also see a green heron, a mink or osprey hunting the fish as they make their way to Damariscotta lake from the estuary. Accessibility: We will take a slow walk alongside the stream and up the wooden walkway over the fish ladder, which includes a steep ramp with handrails.