Maine Coast Heritage Trust

The initiative is driven by real estate values that have climbed sharply on Mount Desert Island, and access to year-round housing that is affordable has become increasingly challenging for many people who work on the island and earn an average income. 

The donation is one of the largest of its type in Maine history. Climate change and development pressure on parts of the coastline increases the urgency. Saltmarsh protection aids a “blue carbon” strategy that prevents carbon from being released into the atmosphere.

The goal of the $3 million campaign is to provide critical new infrastructure and equipment. But there were challenges in attracting bids and securing a contractor.

The conservation project is expected to enhance recreation and hunting opportunities across the 336-acre parcel.

The sale of the property to a trust was designed to ensure continued public access. New parking and programs are underway.

Wrapping up a whale of a fundraiser with help from Maine Beer Co., Maine Coast Heritage Trust is the new owner of three undeveloped Casco Bay islands it acquired for conservation purposes.

Staying at home meant not waiting on renovations to the restaurant, and addition of a bar, for owners of the Craignair Inn. They also enhanced a partnership with neighboring Clark Island, which has just been preserved by Maine Coast Heritage Trust.

The Maine Coast Heritage Trust is buying land in order to preserve the state's salt marshes, and to protect parcels that may become new ones as sea levels rise. Advocates say the efforts are critical to helping Maine and its economy deal with climate change.

Fresh from raising $125 million, the nonprofit's president says protecting Maine land is more important than ever, both for environmental and economic development reasons.

Local Wood Works, a collaborative of seven businesses and nonprofits that promotes the Maine forest economy, brings it to life with an annual tour showing wood from forest to final building product.