I. Introductions/Anti-Trust
Chairman Chandler called us to order at 9:40 A.M. and welcomed the 34 people in attendance to the 42nd meeting of Project S.H.A.R.E. After the general introductions, Chairman Chandler then read the Anti-Trust guidelines. This was another well-attended Project S.H.A.R.E. membership and business meeting.

II. Past Minutes
Chairman Chandler asked the membership for any errors or omissions to the February 8, 2001, minutes that were mailed. Hearing none, the Chair called for a motion to approve. Motion by Matt Scott; Second by Gary Donovan. The minutes were approved as written.

III. Treasurers Report
Steven Koenig gave a summary of the Treasurers Report prepared by Ed Hennessey covering a period from February 6, 2001 to March 30, 2001. The beginning balance for the period was $68,402.84 with credits of $57,814.96 and debits of $46,898.54, leaving an ending balance of $79,319.26. The Treasurers Report was accepted and approved. Motion Bill Cherry; second Charlie Corliss.

IV. Funding Initiatives
Steven Koenig presented a summary of funded contracts that are in place plus a list of projects that are in the initial stages of being developed. The list is attached for reference. Nate Pennell reported on grants being administered through the Washing County Soil and Water Conservation District.

V. Atlantic Salmon Conservation Plan/ASC Update
Ernie Atkinson updated the group on local field activities by the Atlantic Salmon Commission. Fry stocking is being scheduled; volunteers are needed. The Pleasant River smolt trap is in place.

VI. Steering Committee Report
Steven Koenig reported on the March 9th Steering Committee meeting at the Craig Brook Hatchery; 10 of 12 members were present with 3 guests. A copy of the minutes is attached for reference. Following nomination by Bob Chandler, Matt Scott was elected to fill a current vacancy on the Steering Committee.

VII. Executive Director's Report
Steven Koenig presented the Executive Director's report. A copy is attached for reference.

VIII. Standing Committee Reports
Management and Research Committees: Mark Whiting gave a brief report on the current activities of the research committee. He handed out a survey of research priorities which Project SHARE may focus on. A copy is attached for reference.
Education Committee: Peter Stenstra reported on the forums that the education committee is involved with. The March public forum on the federal recovery plan was considered very successful. The committee is planning two additional forum focusing on land use and conservation issues.

IX. Project Updates
Watershed Councils Representative: Sherrie Sprangers discussed Watershed Council Activities.

Charlie Corliss reported activity of the Narraguagus: annual meeting, riparian planting, CHAMP project, and trail work.

Bill Cherry reported on the E. Machias/Machias: NPS project, Munson Rips bridge, kiosks, riparian planting, Round Lake outlet.

Dean Bradshaw reported on the Dennys: fish ladder, NPS restoration projects are planned, riparian plant nursery at Washington Academy.

Donna Gilbert reported on Cove Brook: the council has filed as a non-profit corporation with the State of Maine. Interest is very positive and they are planning several activities.

Dwayne Shaw reported on the Pleasant: land acquisition projects are in processes.

DSF/WSRC/PRH Report: Dwayne reported on activities at DSF and WSRS. The DSF has received it 501(c)3 status by the IRS. Plans for the land trust are continuing, funding by NFWF may extend the educator position full time, a part-time secretary position is funded, smolts from the Pleasant River will be housed temporarily at the hatchery until they can be moved to Craig Brook.

X. Congressional Delegation: No report.

XI. Maine Legislators: No report.

XII. Downeast RC&D Report: No report.

XIII. Water Quality sampling: Mark Whiting, DEP Biologist gave brief report on water quality monitoring activity.

XIV. Program:
Mary Colligan (NMFS) was the guest speaker. She discussed the Federal recovery effort and how Project SHARE and the Watershed Councils will be involved. There are several major categories where effort will be focused:
The federal planning effort that constitutes the ESA Recovery Plan will be an extension of the State Conservation Plan.
Research will principally be the responsibility of Federal Agencies and the ASC. NMFS focuses on activities in the estuaries and oceans, USFWS deals primarily with fresh water. Research activities focus on the fish.
Fish stocking at present is river specific. It traditionally is the responsibility of State and Federal hatcheries. Recently the aquaculture industry has begun to assist.

Areas where assistance is needed or the State or Federal Agencies have little role include:
Habitat protection: federal involvement is reactive, review projects. Local involvement can be proactive with habitat assessment and acquisition.
Restoration and enhancement: Feds can facilitate with funding and proactive assessment. Local initiative can identify problems and implement corrective action.
Water quality testing: EPA has responsibilities that it principally facilitates through the State DEP. Local watershed councils can play an important role assisting with monitoring activities.
River monitoring: the role of River Keepers is principally a local activity where volunteers can document problems and changes.
Threat identification: everyone is involved.
Threat Abatement: refers to how you correct what has been identified. There will be a great deal of planning involved with this area of activity. Local involvement will be essential.
Education and outreach: all are involved. There is no substitute for local involvement and awareness. It is essential for recovery to succeed.

Mary fielded a number of questions regarding watershed council involvement. Several questions focused on the need for financial assistance. Suggestions included developing a strategy for approaching the Congressional delegation. There was also a need expressed for communication from the Watershed Council to pass up to the Federal Agencies.

XIV. Other Business:
Meeting adjourned at 12:35 P.M.
The next meeting is June 14, 2001 at the Hillgrove Community Center.