Kennebunk River Hydrology Study

This project will monitor, model, and assess the Kennebunk River ecosystem for coastal flood risk and water quality conditions. Data gathered will allow the towns of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport to evaluate possible adaptation and resilience actions and policy decisions.

The Kennebunk River is a critically important coastal system, serving as the border between the towns of Kennebunkport and Kennebunk and anchor of both communities’ economic, cultural, and historical hubs. Numerous local and regional planning studies have identified areas around the River, and specifically the Dock Square/Lower Village area, as high-risk zones requiring targeted adaptation efforts to address flood vulnerabilities, safeguard critical habitats, and enhance climate resilience. This project will provide essential data for monitoring and evaluating climate and other human-caused impacts to the health of the River, beaches, and marine environment. This project is a necessary step toward better preparing the River’s natural, built, and social systems for climate change.

Key project components include:

1. Installation of a real-time tide gauge monitoring system for the Kennebunk River

2. Conducting comprehensive water quality testing of the Kennebunk River

3. Public education and outreach to waterfront users, property owners, and community stakeholders

The Kennebunk River Hydrology Study is taking place from April 2025 through June 2026, with opportunities for public input in the project anticipated during fall 2025 and winter 2026 and final project data to be shared during a public meeting in spring/summer 2026.

Project Partners: Town of Kennebunk, Town of Kennebunkport, GEI Consultants, FB Environmental

Funding: Private Foundation

Data Dashboard:

The dashboard below shows tide levels for the Kennebunk River, with data collected via tide gauge. Click here to open the dashboard in a new window.