BETHEL — The Androscoggin River Watershed Council will hold its annual conference from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9, at the Bethel Inn Resort. “The River Current” is an opportunity for everyone to learn about river and land conservation activities along the entire Androscoggin River watershed. Anyone interested in the river and its tributaries may register for the conference for a day of networking and educational presentations designed to inform attendees about on-going river activities.

Presentations will include an opening talk by Nancy Lecompte on the history of Native Americans along the Androscoggin River. Lecompte is the founder, director and primary volunteer of Ne-Do-Ba, a Maine non-profit organization exploring and sharing the Wabanaki history of interior New England. She is an acknowledged authority on the Native American history of this region. This is a great opportunity to hear about the early inhabitants along the Androscoggin.

There will also be an active demonstration of “Stream Smart,” a program that allows streams to act like streams by making road crossings invisible to fish and wildlife. Maine’s streams provide critical habitat for fish and wildlife. But decaying or undersized culverts often block brook trout, salmon, otters and other wildlife. Since the program’s launch in 2011, hundreds of miles of stream habitat have been reconnected in order to improve habitat. Come see how this is accomplished.

Another highlight of the conference will be a presentation by the Chewonki Foundation, “Owls in Maine.” Three live owls are the highlights of this program, which introduces participants to the owls native to Maine and New England. Beginning with slides and sounds, participants will learn the identifying characteristics and calls of each owl. Then, using talons, wings, and skulls, we explore the adaptations of these silent nocturnal hunters. This program ends with an intimate and detailed look at live owls, bringing these creatures of the night into the light!

In addition there will be informational/educational sessions on conservation, water quality, engaging youth in community service and other river related topics.

Although you can register on site, pre-registration is recommended for planning and logistical purposes. Registration is $40.00 for adults and $30.00 for full time students. There is limited scholarship funding available for students. Please call for details on student scholarships. For a full conference agenda and to register for the conference, please visit our website at www.androscogginwatershed.org or contact Becky Secrest at [email protected] or207-824-3813 or 207-754-8158.