A state agency has issued a preliminary decision to block the restoration of a dam on the Crooked River in Harrison.

The draft order issued Friday by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection said rebuilding the Scribner's Mill Dam as part of a restoration of the historic Scribner's Mill would provide educational and economic opportunities.

But, according to the order, those benefits are outweighed by the potential harm the dam could do to the valuable landlocked salmon fishery in Sebago Lake. The Crooked River is a key spawning and nursery habitat for the salmon.

Plans for restoring the water-powered sawmill have led to a dispute between historic preservationists and environmentalists, and both have been waiting for a ruling from the DEP on a state permit application.

The agency will accept comments on the draft order until Nov. 26, and intends to issue a final decision around Dec. 24.