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Commercial Use and Photographer Policy

Maine Audubon devotes substantial resources to maintain our wildlife sanctuaries both for wildlife and habitat and for the enjoyment and enrichment of our diverse visitors. This work is funded through public support and memberships in our organization. We appreciate the appeal our beautiful sanctuaries have for visitors who come to enjoy the natural surroundings. The general public is allowed access to most of our properties year-round from dawn-to-dusk.

Entities that want to use our properties for commercial use, defined below, are required to follow the guidelines set forth in this document.

Definition of a commercial entity:

  • A commercial entity is a corporation, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, limited liability company, association, organization, joint venture, or other legal entity, whether or not for profit, that transacts business. This includes, but is not limited to, photographers, artists, and wedding planners
  • Any agent, employee, servant, independent contractor of, or owner of a photography or videography business, freelance, or photographer, who uses Maine Audubon grounds or facilities for portrait settings of individuals, groups, commercials, training films, movies, documentaries, or advertisements is considered a commercial photographer.

Policy:
No commercial use shall occur without express permission of Maine Audubon. For all commercial use inquiries, please get in touch with Emma Palmer: epalmer@maineaudubon.org, 207.781.2330 x224

Photography or other operations must not interfere with the ability of staff and visitors to enjoy their experience, or visit our sanctuaries and centers safely. No exclusive use will be granted. All signs, established protocols, and restricted areas must be observed. This is for the safety of visitors and wildlife at the sanctuaries. The following guidelines must be followed:

  • No smoking
  • Balloons and glitter are not allowed
  • No open fires
  • Dogs not allowed unless a trained service animal
  • Do not disturb wildlife
  • Do not pick or remove any plants
  • Stay on designated trails
  • Do not cut or climb trees
  • May not erect structures (including temporary – e.g., tents) without permission.
  • No flying of drones without express written permission.

All visitors must follow Maine Audubon’s COVID 19 policies, available at maineaudubon.org/corona

Any image use of the sanctuaries not covered by the above information is subject to review and consideration including, but not limited to, credentialed news media, art shows, educational projects, and video filming. Please email info@maineaudubon.org to discuss your project with our staff.

Maine Audubon reserves the right to deny access to the grounds for commercial purposes to anyone (including members) for any reason deemed necessary, including violation of policies, or conflict with other scheduled events.

Gilsland Farm Audubon Center in Falmouth and Fields Pond in Holden are available for rent for private use, parties, corporate events, weddings, and more. Those renting the grounds for special events receive priority. Click here for more information on rental options.