U.S. Senator Susan Collins has announced the allocation of $23 million to address erosion issues at Camp Ellis in Saco, Maine. The funds, secured through the Fiscal Year 2025 full-year continuing resolution, will be used by the Maine Army Corps of Engineers for constructing a 750-foot spur jetty and replenishing approximately 300,000 cubic yards of sand fill.
Senator Collins stated, “The construction of a spur jetty at Camp Ellis will help to prevent the severe erosion that has destroyed dozens of residents’ homes over generations.” She emphasized her efforts as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee to secure this funding, aiming to resolve ongoing erosion problems and restore the shoreline.
Jodi MacPhail, Mayor of Saco, expressed gratitude towards Senator Collins for her persistent advocacy in collaboration with the Army Corps of Engineers. “On behalf of the City of Saco, we cannot be more thankful for the hard work and dedication to Senator Collins for securing these funds,” she said.
John Bohenko, Saco City Administrator, also acknowledged Senator Collins’ efforts: “The City of Saco is very appreciative of Senator Collins’ hard work in releasing funding for the Camp Ellis project.”
Historically, more than 150 years ago, a jetty built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers extended from the Saco River near Camp Ellis Beach. Its expansion in the 1950s altered currents and sand deposition patterns significantly contributing to severe erosion that resulted in washing away 38 homes. By 1998, this had shifted the shoreline about 400 feet inland compared to its position in 1908.
