The Merrimack: River at Risk
The Merrimack River is the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution in America. During the 19th century, mills in cities such as Manchester, New Hampshire, and Lowell, Massachusetts, harnessed the power of the river to become the largest manufacturing plants in the world. Like many rivers in America, the Merrimack was heavily polluted as a result of industrial growth. But, thanks to the Clean Water Act of 1972, the Merrimack has been cleaned up considerably over the last 50 years. Remarkably, more than 80 percent of the Merrimack watershed is still undeveloped and largely forested. However, in 2016, it was named one of the most endangered rivers in the United States by the nonprofit American Rivers.
Hosted by conservationist and New Hampshire native Leah Hart, the documentary spotlights the threats the river and the watershed face now and in the future. From water treatment professionals to river guides to community builders, Hart interviews people who know what's at stake if towns and communities don’t work together to protect the river and the forests that surround it. It’s through these compelling interviews and Jerry Monkman’s visually stunning cinematography that viewers will come to appreciate the often forgotten resources the Merrimack provides thousands of people every day and why it’s so important to protect them.
Why is the Merrimack at risk? Can we save it? Find out by watching, The Merrimack: River at Risk!
Presenting Sponsor:
Underwriting sponors:
The Norwin S. and Elizabeth N. Bean Foundation &
Check our events page to find out more about upcoming screenings of the documentary. Contact Forest Society Communications Manager
As a nonprofit organization, the Forest Society conserves land and manages forests, but people – our members and donors – are our greatest asset. We need your help today to support The Merrimack film's release and our continued efforts to educate communities about this river at risk.
From Franklin, New Hampshire to Newburyport, Massachusetts, there is much to see and experience along the Merrimack River watershed. Here are a few ideas to explore the watershed on your own, celebrating the clean water and healthy forests that make it a great place to live, work and play.
Read news coverage about the Merrimack River Watershed and articles related to our film from media outlets across the region, including interviews with Director Jerry Monkman and Producer Jack Savage.