Serving the Saco River Headwaters
A 1200 square miles watershed-ecosystem, comprising pristine nature, a robust tourism economy, and vibrant communities in New Hampshire and Maine across our three major aquifers, the Saco, Ossipee, and Wards Brook, as well as the Saco River and all its tributaries.
Our Mission
To protect and conserve abundant, clean ground and surface waters of the watershed that is the Saco River Headwaters for drinking, recreation, and habitat.
Mobilizing Commitment Through Collaboration
As a facilitator/catalyst/liaison among multiple funders, municipalities, hydrology science companies, and government agencies.
Our Urgent Vision
To ensure the multi-generational resiliency and sustainability of the watershed that is the Saco River Headwaters it is critical to take significant, collaborative action now!
Working to protect the watershed that is the Saco River Headwaters…
Natural and human communities and ecosystems depend on access to abundant, clean water; for life and for recreation. Our water sources are under pressure from many quarters including a changing climate and pressures from population changes and development. SHA is working, with like-minded neighbors and organizations, to protect this critical natural resource today, and as a legacy for the future.
Photo © Klementovich
The Saco River Headwaters
The Headwaters of the Saco River Encompass Over 1200 Square Miles of One Critical Ecosystem in Maine and New Hampshire
Designated a “Focus Area of Statewide Ecological Significance” by Beginning with Habitat, a Maine program, fifty towns and municipalities—32 in New Hampshire and 18 in Maine—draw drinking water from surface water and ground water in the Saco River watershed.
In addition to providing high water quality for community use, it is considered to be one of the most biodiverse areas in Maine.
Map created by: Margaret Burns, FB Environmental
“The earth, the air, the land, and the water are not an inheritance from our forefathers but on loan from our children.”
— Mahatma Gandhi
Photo © Klementovich