About Island heritage trust
Island Heritage Trust: Celebrating the Natural Heritage of Deer Isle and Surrounding Islands for Over 30 Years
Island Heritage Trust is a conservation land trust that has been dedicated to preserving the natural heritage of Deer Isle, Stonington, Maine, and surrounding islands for over 30 years. The organization was founded in 1987 by a group of concerned citizens who recognized the need to protect the unique natural resources of this area.
The mission of Island Heritage Trust is to conserve and protect significant open spaces, scenic areas, wildlife habitats, water resources, and historic sites on Deer Isle and surrounding islands. The organization works with landowners to acquire conservation easements or fee ownerships that permanently protect important natural areas from development or other harmful activities.
One of the key programs offered by Island Heritage Trust is its Land Protection Program. This program provides assistance to landowners who wish to permanently protect their properties through conservation easements or fee ownerships. The organization also works with local municipalities and state agencies to identify priority lands for protection.
Another important program offered by Island Heritage Trust is its Stewardship Program. This program involves ongoing monitoring and management of protected lands to ensure that they remain healthy ecosystems that support native plants and animals. The organization also offers educational programs designed to promote public awareness about the importance of conserving natural resources.
Island Heritage Trust has been successful in protecting over 2,500 acres on Deer Isle and surrounding islands since its inception in 1987. These protected lands include forests, wetlands, shorelines, meadows, fields, ponds, streams, lakeshores as well as historic sites such as old farmsteads or lighthouses.
The organization's success can be attributed in part due to its strong partnerships with local communities including businesses owners who recognize the value of preserving open space for recreational opportunities such as hiking trails or bird watching spots which attract tourists from all over Maine during peak season months like summer and fall.
Island Heritage Trust is also committed to promoting sustainable land use practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. The organization works with farmers, foresters, and other landowners to promote sustainable agriculture, forestry, and other land uses that are compatible with conservation goals.
In addition to its conservation work, Island Heritage Trust also offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors to Deer Isle and surrounding islands. These include hiking trails, bird watching spots, kayaking or canoeing routes as well as educational programs designed for children or adults interested in learning more about the natural history of this area.
Overall, Island Heritage Trust is an important organization that has been dedicated to preserving the natural heritage of Deer Isle and surrounding islands for over 30 years. Its success can be attributed in part due to its strong partnerships with local communities including businesses owners who recognize the value of preserving open space for recreational opportunities such as hiking trails or bird watching spots which attract tourists from all over Maine during peak season months like summer and fall.