II. Past Minutes
Chairman Chandler asked the membership for any errors or omissions to the June 14th, 2001 minutes that were mailed. Following minor corrections, the Chair called for a motion to approve. Motion by Matt Scott, second by Gary Donovan. The minutes were approved as corrected.

III. Treasurers Report
Steven Koenig gave a summary of the Treasurers Report prepared by Ed Hennessey. Motion to accept by Gary Donovan, second by Sherrie Sprangers. Approved.

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. There was a suggestion that members of the Steering Committee review large grant funding packages prior to submission in order to provide the Executive Director assistance.

V. Atlantic Salmon Conservation Plan/ASC Update
Greg Mackey presented a report of recent ASC activity.
· Adult returns: Dennys 8, Narraguagus 15, Pleasant 10.
· All habitat surveys have been completed.
· Adult fish stocking will take place in the fall.
· Matt Scott asked if Pleasant River fish are going to be checked to determine if they originated at the hatchery. Greg noted that if possible they would be distinguished. It depends on age of escape.
· Matt Scott also noted that small mouth bass had been illegally introduced to the Pleasant 25 years ago. The ASC can look into it to see if anything can be done about a new introduced predator.
· An IFIM study will be conducted on the Dennys.

VI. Steering Committee Report
Steven Koenig reported on the July Steering Committee meeting at the Craig Brook Hatchery. A copy of the minutes is attached for reference.

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 reported that priorities identified by the committee are:
· An electronic library of information related to the Atlantic salmon recovery
· Training
· Assistance with ongoing research

Education Committee: No report available.

IX. Project Updates
Watershed Councils Activities:

Sheepscot - Melissa circulated a handout on the habitat workshop that the SVCA is hosting in October. A newsletter is being prepared. They have several NPS projects underway. An open house is planned for September. Water quality data indicate low DO, high temperatures and high fecal coliform this summer.

Cove Brook - Donna noted that the Cove Brook Watershed Council is made up of decision makers. Aaron Corr has looked at problems associated with a tributary to Cove Brook. The Watershed Council is considering 501©3 status and possible land trust activities. They are also interested in a Stream Team to increase water quality monitoring.

Narraguagus - Charlie reported that phase 1 of the West Branch Trail project has been completed. Parties will meet with Congressman Baldacci tomorrow in Bangor to discuss the Cherryfield sand/salt pile. The LURC intern has documented 50 new sites in the 5 watersheds. Barbara reported on activities related to the Watershed Management Plan. The NPS survey has been submitted and accepted by DEP. They are working on a bibliography of information related to the Narraguagus. Geneva Duncan reported that the Bob Small property is now certified as a tree farm. The ATV trail project can now be funded by Embrace-a-Stream. A new road will be going in away from the river and the current trail will be eliminated.

Pleasant - Dwayne reported that new officers are in place on the Pleasant River Watershed Council. Wednesday there will be a hike prior to the regular meeting.

E. Machias - Sherrie reported that funding is in place for the Munson Rips ATV bridge. The blocks in the river will be removed as part of the project.

Machias - Sherrie reported that they have been working on additional kiosks and membership building. Dwayne provided information on the sand beach project and the Whitneyville boat landing.

Dennys - The Dennys has a good core group. They are preparing for the Venture Brook project related to beaver activity. The EPA has completed sampling including Hatton Brook.

DSF/WSRC/PRH Report: Dwayne introduced Jacob van de Sande who reported on his activities. He is gathering information relative to educational outreach aimed at area schools.

X. Congressional Delegation: No report.

XI. Maine Legislators: No report.

XII. Water Quality sampling: Mark Whiting reported on water quality monitoring on Cove Brook and storm water quality monitoring. Cove Brook is unique in pH and alkalinity. There was a meeting at the Craig Brook Hatchery to discuss acid rain. Acid deposition continues to be an issue although it is not currently in the headlines. Depressions of pH during storm events have been moderate. Depressions into the mid-5's have been recorded on the Pleasant.

XIII. Program
Gary Donovan and Brian Bronson discussed recreational land use activities related to ATVs in our watersheds. The Department of Conservation Off Roads vehicle Division is actively working with International Paper, ATV clubs, and the Watershed Councils to address water quality issues related to recreational ATV use. He presented an overview of the approved trail system and services that DOC provides. One comment noted the need for support for statewide regulations to close trails to ATV use during the spring "mud" season. Watershed Councils can assist with the logistics of organizing a local club. Brain is available to assist the organizational process.

In an effort to conserve time, Dave Garcelon requested that his discussion of the PL566 funding be put on the September Steering Committee agenda.

XIV. Other Business:
Meeting adjourned at 12:12 P.M. Motion by Matt Scott, Second by Charlie Corliss. Approved.

The next meeting is October 11, 2001 at the Hillgrove Community Center.