The work we do on behalf of Maine wildlife is often made more impactful when it’s done in collaboration with others. This summer Maine Audubon is embarking on a new partnership with Frenchman Bay Conservancy (FBC), a nonprofit land conservation organization in Downeast Maine.
Since the late 1980s, FBC has conserved more than 25,000 acres through conservation easements or FBC-owned preserves in 12 towns and townships in Maine In 2023 FBC purchased the former Bar Harbor Golf Course along the Jordan River in Trenton, Maine. This 186-acre preserve consists of tidal salt marsh, wetland, and forest habitats. Over the past couple of years, FBC has been working to restore these landscapes that support 39 coastal dependent and migratory bird species identified as state, regional and/or continental conservation priorities. This restoration work is still ongoing, and the preserve is not officially open to the public yet.
Earlier this year, FBC reached out to Maine Audubon to organize a limited series of naturalist walks on the Jordan River Preserve this summer as a first step toward developing future public education, interpretation, and access to this preserve. This partnership will help both our organizations understand the potential for ongoing education and conservation at this special site.
Starting on June 6, Maine Audubon naturalists and special guests will lead free monthly walks at Frenchman Bay Conservancy’s Jordan River Preserve, 51 Jordan River Road, Trenton. Since the Preserve will not be open to the public until 2027, our programming will be limited to those who have registered in advance. Space will be limited and registration for the following programs is available on our website. We hope you can join us!
Birding Walk
Saturday, June 6, 8-9:30 am
With many resident bird species defending territories and looking for mates, June is a great time to meet Maine’s resident avifauna. Birding by sight and by ear, this program is accessible for beginners but provides learning opportunities for the more experienced birder as well.
Biodiversity Naturalist Walk
Thursday, June 25, 10-11:30 am
Explore with Maine Audubon naturalists to identify the different species of plants, animals, and fungi that inhabit the preserve. Sharpen your naturalist skills and document your observations to help provide a biodiversity baseline for the site!
Habitat Exploration Naturalist Walk
Tuesday, July 21, 3-4:30 pm
Learn about a few of the diverse habitat types that make Downeast Maine special while seeing what plants and animals call them home. Discover how the intersections between habitats make for diverse and fascinating natural spaces.
Wading Bird Walk
with Bob and Sandi Duchesne
Saturday, August 29, 9 am
Late summer is a great time to see wading birds as they disperse outside their breeding range. Co-hosted by lifetime birders Bob and Sandi Duchesne, this birding walk will focus on the herons and egrets that call Maine home.
Bird Migration Walk
Thursday, October 8, 8-9:30 am
With some resident birds gearing up for migration and some species actively migrating through Maine, fall is an excellent time to put your birdings skills to the test. Join Maine Audubon naturalists on this bird-focused walk accessible for all skill levels.
