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Kennebunk keeps local waters closed to alewife (river herring) harvesting for 2026
Summary
Per an annual review requested by the Department of Marine Resources, the Select Board voted unanimously to keep Kennebunk waters closed to commercial and recreational alewife (river herring) harvesting in 2026, citing reduced runs and dam impacts.
The Select Board voted 7-0 on Feb. 24 to keep Kennebunk waters closed to the harvesting of alewives, now commonly called river herring, for both commercial and recreational purposes during the 2026 season.
Town Clerk Merton Brown explained that state law and the town charter give the Select Board annual authority to make the determination and that if the board fails to act it could forfeit the right to decide in future years. Board members discussed conservation concerns and the historical decline of runs due to dams.
The motion keeps existing protections in place for 2026; the clerk served as the town contact for Department of Marine Resources questions.
Next steps: The town will continue to coordinate with DMR on future season determinations and any scientific or regulatory updates.
