Open House- Upper Millpond Dam Fishway

The Upper Millpond Dam was built in the mid-1800s to provide hydromechanical power to a mill that made axe handles. It’s been abandoned but still blocking migratory Alewife runs since the early 1900s.  Attempts to remove it failed due to water supply concerns and so a fishway has been built at the dam.  It is nearing completion as this event is being registered in March of 2026.  This open house will be the first time the site will be open to the public and the Alewives may be running.  This event is scheduled in advance of the actual World Fish Migration Day because of the anticipated timing of the Alewife run.  The site includes a handicap accessible ramp and viewing platform overlooking the fishway and dam.  The event will be led by Sally Harold and Steve Gephard of RiverWork, LLC , which provided project management.  They will describe the project, how the fishway works, and what to expect at the site in the coming years.  This event is open to the general public, free-of-charge, with no advance registration required.  This is plenty of parking available, near the Big Y supermarket.