On August 26th, the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC) and Northern Middlesex Council of Governments (NMCOG), co-hosted a screening of  “The Merrimack- River at Risk” a new documentary film by renowned filmmaker Jerry Monkman, and produced by the Society for the Protection of NH Forests. The film explores the central role the Merrimack plays in the past, present and future of the region. The screening was followed by a question and answer session with Forest Society President, Jack Savage and Education Director, Dave Anderson and the filmmaker, Jerry Monkman. For those who missed this showing, the Merrimack River Watershed Council will be hosting a screening on September 24th at 7 p.m. To Register click here.

MVPC is currently co-chairing the Merrimack River District Commission with Northern Essex Community College President, Lane Glenn. A report from consultants Brown and Caldwell outlining a framework for decision making and funding priorities, including a unified vision and statement of regional goals, is expected to be released this fall. Funding for this initiative was secured by State Senator Diana DiZoglio (D-Methuen). The report was completed with the assistance of an interstate steering committee, made up of local and regional officials, the Watershed Council, wastewater treatment plant operators, recreational river users and other stakeholders, as well as a technical advisory group. MVPC will post the report as soon as it is released.