LEWISTON — The Androscoggin River Watershed Council and its partners invite everyone interested in the Androscoggin River and its watershed to join them on Thursday, Dec. 5 for the Watershed Conference.

Presenters from numerous state and regional groups will present information, lead discussions and answer questions on topics ranging from fresh water and anadromous fisheries, river flow and hydroelectric dams, a wide range of efforts to improve fish habitat, and recreation and riverfront projects bringing new life to the river and communities.

Each year brings new appreciation of the Androscoggin and its numerous tributaries and the critical relationships within the watershed as well as the relationships with coastal and ocean waters. Keynote speakers from the Bates, Bowdoin and University of Southern Maine project on Rivers, Estuaries and Coastal Fisheries, Ta Herrera from Bowdoin College and Karen Wilson from University of Southern Maine will discuss the interconnectivity of the Androscoggin watershed with the Gulf of Maine.

There has also been a continuing effort since a river forum a couple of years ago to evaluate the potential to develop an Androscoggin River Institute that would bring government entities, nonprofits and academic institutions including Bates, Bowdoin and the University of Southern Maine together to evaluate the science and economy of the river and its watershed. There will be an open discussion of this concept including sessions to solicit input from participants.

Another highlight of the conference will be a presentation on management of the Androscoggin River by Brookfield Renewable Resources. Last spring, Brookfield became the owner of the vast majority of dams on the Androscoggin. The river is regulated to provide hydropower, minimize flooding and provide recreation. Participants will learn more about the river control, safety provisions and recreational opportunities.

Participants will also be able to join a tour of Museum L/A and also Baxter Brewing following the conference at 2:35.

Speakers include Francis Brautigam, Maine IFW; Gail Whipplehauser, Maine Marine Resources; Tom Mapletoft and Todd Wynn, Brookfield; Karen Wilson, USM; Ta Herrera, Bowdoin College; Ethel Wilkerson, Manomet; Neil Ward, Androscoggin River Alliance; Roger Poor, Northern Forest Canoe Trail; Susan Gammon, Andy Valley Soil and Water Conservation District; and Perry Risely, Source to the Sea trekker.

Details and registration are available at www.androscogginwatershed.org or by calling AVCOG at 783-9186.

Registration, which is $40, or $25 for full-time students, includes continental breakfast and lunch.