Help us conserve the Jersey Bog!

April 24, 2009

Kimball Property

In August 2008, the Androscoggin Land Trust closed on the acquisition of a 126-acre parcel of property in Buckfield formerly owned by the Estate of Donetta Kimball. Situated within the Jersey Bog ecosystem, this parcel is another critical piece of the conservation puzzle for this ecologically important natural area. Once this project is complete, we will have conserved nearly 300 acres within this conservation focus area.

The Maine Natural Areas Program identifies Jersey Bog as a significant natural habitat containing exemplary natural communities, a state-listed rare plant species and deer wintering areas. The conservation of the Kimball property ensures permanent connectivity between the 165-acre Ackley–Drew Brook property that abuts to the east (and on which the Androscoggin Land Trust holds a conservation easement) and the 185-acre Nature Conservancy parcel that abuts the Kimball property to the west. Such large tracts of unfragmented land are becoming increasingly rare.

Future plans for the Jersey Bog Conservation Area include recreational opportunities including hiking, nature observation, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Selective sustainable harvesting of forest products is also a possibility, with some of the proceeds going toward the perpetual stewardship of the property.

Through the generosity of an anonymous donor, the Androscoggin Land Trust is in a position to match donations over the next few months up to a total of $20,000. Please consider a contribution to this project, knowing that for every dollar you contribute two dollars will support completing this effort. For more information about donating, please call our office at 207-782-2302.