Midcoast Conservancy is delighted to report that, thanks to the generosity of donor Tom Boothby, it has added 25 acres within its Northern Headwaters Focus Area and Sheepscot Watershed. The property is almost entirely intact forest and includes three acres of Great Blue Heron Habitat, which is currently a species of interest. Whitten Hill Trail, a public trail managed by Midcoast Conservancy, passes through the western edge of the property.

Boothby says, “I knew this property was special when I stumbled upon it in 1988. An inquiry to the neighbors at the time established that, yes, it was for sale. Excitement and thankfulness, along with a prayer and resolve to not foul this beautiful nest, has held true for the 25 years since. Homesteading, gardening, grounds and woods maintenance and improvement have defined my stay and stewardship, and has led me to care for it beyond my time here. My wish is to have one or two more lifetimes at my home. Barring that, this conservation easement is my plea and purpose into the future that this property, and the hundreds of protected acres beyond it, will continue to nurture and inspire future stewards to live lightly, well, and with grace.”

Land Protection Specialist Anne Read, Midcoast Conservancy Lands Committee member Bambi Jones, Tom Boothby, Director of Land Conservation and Ecology Chris Schorn and Executive Director Pete Nichols celebrated the donation at the Edgecomb office of Midcoast Conservancy.

Midcoast Conservancy is a vibrant regional land trust that works to protect vital lands and waters on a scale that matters and to inspire wonder and action on behalf of all species and the Earth. The organization works throughout the Sheepscot River, Medomak River, and Damariscotta Lake watersheds. Midcoast Conservancy manages over 14,000 acres in 55 preserves and 100 miles of trails, including Hidden Valley, a preserve with cabin and outdoor recreation equipment rentals and a low-impact forestry program. Community members can get involved in the organization’s work as volunteers with water quality monitoring, habitat restoration, fish passage projects, forestry and oyster farming or outdoor recreation and education. For more information, go to www.midcoastconservancy.org or call (207) 389-5150.