WATERFORD — The fifth in a series of public discussions and meetings concerning the Crooked River, the Crooked River Initiative will present “Straight Talk About the Crooked River” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 1, at the Wilkins House, 21 Plummer Hill Road.

Kirsten Ness from the Portland Water District will talk about land use and water quality and current projects designed to protect the natural resources of the watershed. Bett Williams of the Cumberland County Soil and Water Conservation District will introduce the Crooked River watershed survey grant that has recently been awarded.

Also, Matt Craig of the Casco Bay Estuary partnership and Will Plumley from the Friends of the Presumpscot River will discuss the Presumpscot River Watershed Coalition. Afterwards there will be a group discussion about steps in creating a Crooked River Coalition.

Anyone interested in the protection of the Crooked River watershed is encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served.