Fundraiser for the Merrimack
NEWBURYPORT — Merrimack River Watershed Council is hosting five casual fundraiser events along the river this spring and summer.
On May 21, MRWC will host an informal gathering at The Deck restaurant, 179 Bridge Road, Salisbury, from 6 to 8 p.m. Guests can enjoy the Merrimack from The Deck’s scenic waterfront locale, and MRWC staff will be on hand to talk about the river and the organization’s work.
Tickets are $100 and include cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres. They can be purchased at https://merrimack.org/events/mrwc-may-fundraiser/
MRWC will also host four river cruises — one per month on the second Tuesday, June through September — exploring the wildlife, history, landmarks, and ecology of the lower Merrimack River. These scenic and informative tours will motor through different sections of the river, guided by local experts who will educate and entertain with stories, information and insight meant to broaden knowledge and appreciation of the mighty Merrimack — and no doubt along the way, surprise passengers with sightings of fascinating fish and fowl that inhabit the river.
The boat tours are:
June 11 – Cruise into Summer! Meander upriver from Newburyport toward Rocks Village. This ride is designed to experience the river as it transitions into summer. Boat departs from Waterfront Park, Newburyport, at 5:30 p.m.
July 9 – Ecological History and Health: From a waterfront perspective, learn about Haverhill’s history and ecology from Matthew Cranney, MRWC’s Water Resources Project Manager. See unique habitats the river currently supports, and hear about ongoing efforts to improve the river’s health. Municipal Dock, Haverhill, at 6:15 p.m.
Aug. 13 – Plum Island Sound: Explore Plum Island River and the Great Marsh that is home to over 300 species of birds, including Egrets and Tree Swallows that are at peak abundance at this time of year. Mass Audubon Community Science and Coastal Resilience Manager David Moon will help identify wildlife and explain efforts to help the Great Marsh cope with sea level rise. Waterfront Park, Newburyport, at 6:15 pm.
Sept. 10 – Mouth of the River: Explore the mouth of the Merrimack and the beachy coast of Plum Island. Learn from MRWC’s Education & Policy Director John Macone about the geology, history and wildlife that make this area so beautiful and unique. Waterfront Park, Newburyport, at 5:30 pm.
Tickets for each boat tour is $60 per person. Registration is required due to limited space. To learn more and to register for any of these events, visit Merrimack.org/events
Proceeds from these fundraiser events will help support MRWC’s ongoing mission to make the Merrimack a cleaner and healthier river. MRWC engages in a broad spectrum of water quality programs, riverfront restoration and protection, cleanups, invasive plant species removal, classroom education, and free public educational and recreation events along the Merrimack.
“The Merrimack is so rich in history, and we believe it is important to educate people who live in the region about the need to protect and preserve the river for future generations,” said Tracy Chalifour, director of development for the MRWC. “We hope to connect with residents that have a desire to understand and appreciate the river’s diverse past and its ecological future.”
Chalifour said the history of the river is vast and the harm caused by the industrial revolution and more recent damage from antiquated wastewater systems and runoff from development keep the Merrimack in a constant state of recovery. She emphasized the significance of resident involvement and support.
