09/02/2026
π’ Community Advisory: Public Safety Training Exercise
The City of Lowell will participate in an oil spill training exercise in the Merrimack River today, September 2, and tomorrow, September 3, 2026.
This coordinated training involves participation from:
β’ U.S. Coast Guard
β’ U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
β’ Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
β’ Lowell Fire Department
The exercise will take place on the river itself as well as in adjacent areas, including:
β’ Rourke Boat Ramp
β’ Sampas Boat Launch
β’ Beaver Brook
β’ Hunts Falls Bridge
This is a regular training exercise designed to help participating agencies prepare for and coordinate a response to an oil spill in the river. Residents and visitors may see emergency personnel and equipment in these areas during the exercise.