Sappi North America Warns Shawmut Dam Removal Threatens Somerset Mill, Jobs Amid Kennebec River Agreement

Sappi North America has issued a cautionary statement following The Nature Conservancy’s announcement of an agreement with Brookfield Renewable to acquire four hydroelectric facilities on Maine’s Kennebec River, including the critical Shawmut Dam. While the Conservancy prioritizes fish passage restoration, Sappi emphasizes that removal of the Shawmut Dam could endanger the viability of its Somerset Mill in Skowhegan, which relies on the dam’s impoundment for essential water intake and discharge operations. The mill, which recently underwent a $500 million transformation to become North America’s most advanced producer of renewable, fiber-based packaging, supports thousands of direct and indirect jobs in the region. Sappi urges a balanced approach that protects both fisheries and local livelihoods, highlighting the potential risk to its Maine operations, contractors, and supply chain partners. The company remains committed to stakeholder collaboration in seeking sustainable solutions for the Kennebec River’s health, while safeguarding economic wellbeing and continued investment in the local community. Hashtags:

GOVERNMENT REGULATION/LAWSUITS