Downeast Salmon Federation Selects Sargent Corporation for Cherryfield Dam Replacement and Fish Passage Project

Cherryfield, Maine — April 13, 2026  — Downeast Salmon Federation (DSF) is pleased to announce that it has signed a contract with Sargent Corporation to lead construction of the Cherryfield dam replacement and fish passage improvement project on the Narraguagus River. Selected through a competitive bid process, Sargent Corporation brings extensive experience in environmental restoration and a strong track record delivering complex infrastructure projects across Maine. As project manager, DSF is working in close partnership with the Town of Cherryfield, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, Atlantic Salmon Federation, and The Nature Conservancy to advance this effort. Maine Department of Marine Resources is assisting with technical support and project funding has been provided by NOAA Restoration Center. 

This milestone marks a significant step forward in restoring river connectivity, improving fish passage, and enhancing ecological and community benefits in downtown Cherryfield. Construction is expected to begin in July 2026, with most major work completed throughout the summer and fall. Final site restoration and finishing work may continue into 2027.

“This project represents years of collaboration, planning, and community input,” said Dwayne Shaw, Executive Director of Downeast Salmon Federation. “Partnering with Sargent Corporation brings a high level of experience and professionalism to the effort. Together, we’re working to restore access to critical habitat for sea-run fish while maintaining the character and resilience of the Cherryfield community.”

The project will replace the existing dam with a nature-like fishway, restoring fish passage for endangered Atlantic salmon, river herring, American shad, and other migratory fish while maintaining a headpond for ice control and flood resilience. In addition, the project will incorporate park improvements, including enhanced public access, recreational amenities, and new community gathering spaces.

Based in Orono, Maine, Sargent Corporation brings decades of experience in heavy civil construction and environmental restoration, including recent fish passage work in Danforth, ME and culvert upgrades across the region.

“For us, it means a lot to do this kind of work in a community like Cherryfield and to keep local people working close to home while it happens,” said Brent Williams, Project Executive of Sargent Corporation. “This is important work for the river, for the town, and for the people who care deeply about this place. It also carries a personal connection for our team. Our General Superintendent, Adam Tenan, grew up in Cherryfield, so this is not just another project to him. We appreciate the trust Downeast Salmon Federation and the project partners have placed in us, and we look forward to getting started.”