III. Local Support
Local support for the designation of the Swift River into the Rivers Management and Protection Program is strong. At Town Meeting in March 1989, the towns of Albany and Conway voted to support the Saco River Advisory Council for the purpose of making recommendations to the towns and the Rivers Management Advisory Committee on the protection and management of the river. In June 1989, the Council prepared and distributed a questionnaire to riparian landowners along the Swift and Saco Rivers. Thirty-seven percent of the landowners responded to the survey. Respondents indicated that they value the rivers' natural beauty, high water quality, recreational opportunities, free-flowing nature, and lack of development. Ninety-seven percent indicated that the rivers contribute to the quality of life in their communities and 86 percent believe that the rivers are worthy of designation as special rivers in New Hampshire.
A public hearing was held on December 11, 1989, to receive public comments on the nomination of the Swift River. The hearing was held at the John Fuller School in North Conway and was attended by more than 50 people. An overwhelming majority of those present indicated their support for the designation of the Swift River. The White Mountain National Forest has also expressed Its support for the state designation the river.