Since 2008, Labonte has been executive director of the Androscoggin Land Trust, which currently conserves 4,850 acres of land and more than 10 miles of river frontage, and in recent years has helped bring the recreational potential of the river to the forefront of state and federal policies.

He will describe how the river was harnessed to build the Twin Cities through canals and hydropower, how this water system compared with others in industrial New England and how the potential for river parks and recreation can affect the future of the river valley.

Beyond his Land Trust work, LaBonte was elected in November as the youngest-ever mayor of Auburn and previously was an Androscoggin County commissioner. He grew up in New Auburn, attending St. Dominic and then the University of Maine. At any point during the summer he is likely to be on the river, paddling between his home and office, both of which are near downtown boat launches.

The Historical Society’s headquarters is on the third floor of the County Courthouse at Court and Turner streets. The public is invited to attend the program without charge. An elevator is available.

At the society’s meeting May 22, David Garcelon will share his insight into the contributions of his great-great-grandfather, Alonzo Garcelon, a Lewiston native who was a physician, legislator, governor and co-founder of the Lewiston Journal.

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