A note from Watershed faculty:

In the spring of 2021, Watershed School embarked on a project-based S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, ART, and Math) learning experience. As the Town of Camden considers the future of the Megunticook River, students had an opportunity to inform themselves and their community about the possibilities that river restoration could bring. By coordinating across the art curriculum and science curriculum, juniors at Watershed were able to learn about the biology of a particular diadromous fish species and then explore how to represent that species in a piece of public art.

Students also went out on the river to collect water quality data above and below the dams that are being considered for removal or alteration. The mural was a complex undertaking that involved much planning before paint was applied. Between painting sessions, they also designed and completed this website as a companion to the waterfront mural at the Camden harbor. As one student put it, “I liked exploring a topic from different angles in more than one class.” We hope you enjoy the fruits of their labor and learn a bit more about the fish that could once again call the Megunticook River home.

Many thanks to the Stewardship Education Alliance (S.E.A.), Alison McKellar, the Town of Camden, Hammond Lumber in Camden and to Hallie Arno for their support in making this project a reality.

Deb Hoffman, art faculty at Watershed School

Mila Plavsic, Ph.D., science faculty at Watershed School