The river drops approximately 90 feet (27 m) through the center of Amesbury, providing ample water power for the early industrial development of the town.

During flooding, the Powwow River has made national news[citation needed] due to the potential destruction of historic buildings in Amesbury.

In 2004, The Nature Conservancy purchased 50 acres (20 ha), including more than 3,000 feet (910 m) of frontage on the Powwow River and nearly all of a large Atlantic white cedar basin swamp.

In 2006, The Nature Conservancy acquired four more tracts, totaling 41.8 acres (16.9 ha) and providing 1,300 feet (400 m) of river frontage, adding further protection to the swamp.

The partners eventually hope to conserve a contiguous block of more than 900 acres (360 ha), safeguarding the river and its special habitats and providing opportunities for public boating, hunting, fishing and wildlife observation.