Bill > H4591

This bill establishes the Merrimack River Collaborative, a coordinating entity aimed at improving the water quality and ecological health of the Merrimack River. The Collaborative will initially focus on the river's mainstem from the southern New Hampshire border to its mouth, with potential future expansion to include tributaries. Managed by an Executive Committee comprising representatives from the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, Northern Middlesex Council of Governments, and Merrimack River Watershed Council, the group will include representatives from 16 local communities, state legislative offices, environmental and government agencies, non-governmental organizations, universities, and water management entities. The Collaborative's primary goals include convening members, standardizing water quality monitoring data, tracking pollutants, prioritizing water quality improvement projects, and identifying funding opportunities. The group will not be a funded entity but may advocate for project funding, and members will serve without compensation. The Collaborative is required to conduct public hearings, produce an annual report detailing its accomplishments and recommendations, and submit this report to the Senate and House of Representatives by December 31st each year. The first meeting must occur within 90 days of the act's effective date, with the broader aim of making the Merrimack River swimmable, drinkable, and fishable while supporting biodiversity and climate resilience.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4591