Wiscasset Conservation Commission hopes to finalize a set of recommendations on the Montsweag Dam Preserve, including how best address the aging dam that provides a water source for fire protection.

Over the past year, the commission has been weighing the costs of repairing versus removal of the dam Central Maine Power built in the 1940s. Estimates put the cost of repairs as high as, or more than, the cost of removal. At issue is the loss of the impoundment created by the dam and how water needed for fire protection might be replaced. Four of the commission’s five members and Town Planner Ben Averill met in the hearing room April 26.

Chair Anne Leslie will draft a recommendation addressing the dam for the commission to consider at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 4. Leslie will then pass the recommendation on to selectmen.

A survey of Montsweag Brook will be carried out this summer by Trout Unlimited of Maine, to determine what migratory fish spawn in the brook that feeds into Montsweag Bay. The commission hopes construction can commence this summer on a small parking area off Bradford Road at the entrance of the preserve. The work is to be carried out by the town’s public works department. Before it can begin, the town needs an easement from CMP.

The commission will also look into erecting an entrance sign and exploring options for developing a hiking trail. Midcoast Conservancy will be contacted for assistance in planning the trail. The commission also plans to contact Scouting organizations to see if they have any interest in making the sign or volunteering to help with trail construction.

White’s Island was discussed April 26, as well. Averill said at the present the town wasn’t pursuing any grant funding. He said he hopes to discuss what the town’s goals for the island are at a future selectmen’s meeting. Maine Coast Heritage Trust has offered to assist in pursuing a grant to replace the footbridges. The commission supports the idea of reopening the island to public access.

Commissioner Stephen Graffam plans to volunteer on the annual Sheepscot River Kayak Race. This year’s event, coordinated by Scott Shea and Frank Hanson, will be held July 4 and begin at the waterfront. Commissioner Marty Fox also expressed an interest in volunteering. The commission is considering having an information table at the waterfront the day of the race.