Sometimes mere words do not adequately describe an event. Last week, at Damariscotta River Association’s annual holiday party, well over 100 people would agree that the event defied description.

Sharing potluck appetizers and desserts, drinks and renewed friendships were an important part of the fun. Celebrating the organization’s attainment of goals was another. In addition to socialization and celebration, members were treated to an update from Steven Hufnagel, DRA’s executive director, on the accomplishments of DRA’s 40th anniversary year.

Included in those accomplishments was the finalization of the Phillips Farm acquisition in partnership with Maine Farmland Trust. Some may recall that was the land targeted for acquisition by Walmart. The land is now available for sale to a potential farmer.

Hufnagel also talked about DRA’s commitment to historical preservation, citing Roger Panek’s expertise in restoring much of the woodwork in and around DRA’s Heritage Center on Belvedere Road and at Round Top Farm. He shared that efforts to stabilize the Round Top farmhouse will commence this spring.

Also included in the remarks was praise for the work, led by Mariellen Whalen, to transform the former Round Top Ice Cream shack into a pleasant warming hut for skaters.

He noted that 2013 saw an increase in the number of members who participated in DRA’s Trail Tamers program. The latter involves clearing trails, establishing new trails, checking on trail markers, and any number of things having to do with trail maintenance. On average, 12-15 volunteers showed up for each of the monthly Trail Tamer tasks.

He also noted that the organization is now more than halfway through its fund-raising efforts to purchase Crow Island in the Thread of Life, in order to maintain its exceptional wildlife values.

DRA Board President, Bruce Lutsk, concluded remarks by noting that the expansion of membership and volunteers is a key indicator of the health of an organization. If the attendance at this holiday party can be seen as an indicator, he noted, DRA is in very good health.

The Damariscotta River Association is a non-profit membership supported organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of the Damariscotta River, its watershed, and adjacent areas for the benefit of all. Visitors are welcome at the Great Salt Bay Farm Heritage Center in Damariscotta as well as the many other DRA properties throughout the region.

For more information, call 207-563-1393, email dra@damariscottariver.org, or visit www.damariscottariver.org.