Healthy Lands

We are working to safeguard the remaining beauty on earth by reducing humanity’s heavy footprint. Taking care of nature’s ecosystems is what makes our lives possible and we need your help to do this work.

Across over 15,000 acres of conserved lands with 100 miles of public trails, we offer members and volunteers a place to deepen their love and respect for the natural world through stewardship.

We have a preserve near you. All are open to the public for hiking and snowshoeing. We also offer opportunities for hunting at select preserves. Come to Hidden Valley Nature Center in Jefferson and enjoy miles of trails including our special bog boardwalk. Several trails at our Nature Center are open for mountain bikes and horseback riding. Leashed dogs are welcome.

We are here for you as a resource as you look for options that will help preserve wildlife habitat and other natural benefits on your land. We connect you with landowners who have worked with us. Visit our Conserve Your Land page to learn more about land conservation opportunities.

The land we protect supports many uses. Learn more about our sustainable forestry work and hunting opportunities on Midcoast Conservancy properties.

30 x 30 CONSERVATION INITIATIVE

In 2021, we launched the 30x30 Land and Water Conservation Initiative to protect 30,000 acres of the midcoast region by 2030. This aspirational goal--doubling our current conservation efforts– can contribute significantly to protecting and restoring the vital lands and waters of the midcoast, act to mitigate the impacts of climate change, and ensure the quality of life our residents and communities deserve.

We are actively working to develop and pursue locally-led strategies to protect, restore, and connect the lands, waters, and wildlife upon which we all depend.

Read more about this initiative here or download the technical report: Midcoast Conservancy 30 x 30 Landscape Priority Assessment.

Sustainable Forestry

Several of our preserves have active forest management plans, but the best place to learn how you can create income by managing your own tract of forest land is at our Hidden Valley Nature Center in Jefferson. With nearly 1,000 acres of contiguous forest, our nature center offers an immense natural and educational resource in Midcoast Maine. A small forestry crew applies innovative practices, under the direction of a certified consulting forester, on about 15 acres each year. Our management is designed to enhance the value of timber, wildlife habitat, water quality, and recreation. Learn more about our sustainable forestry program here.

12 Rivers Conservation Initiative

Midcoast Conservancy is part of the 12 Rivers Conservation Initiative, a group of seven land trusts working together to connect the natural landscapes of Midcoast Maine. Within 12 Rivers, Midcoast Conservancy has been a leader on conservation planning with an eye to ensuring our landscapes stay healthy through climate change.