The East Windham Conservation Area, featuring 700 acres of pristine wilderness, will host its grand opening on May 4th from 10 a.m. to noon, with May 5th serving as the rain date.
Comparable to Bradbury State Park in size, the East Windham Conservation Area provides year-round enjoyment for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. It also forms part of the most extensive conservation corridor in Southern Maine, according to Windham Communications Director Roger Cropley, linking with Lowell Preserve, North Falmouth Community Forest, and Blackstrap Hill Preserve.
“Acquiring this land and the open space it offers aligns with our long-term strategy to preserve Windham’s rural character,” said Brett Jones, Windham Town Councilor. “Combining its 700 acres with other established preserves grants Windham and neighboring residents access to 2,000 acres of unspoiled nature, facilitating outdoor recreation throughout all four seasons.”
The East Windham Conservation Area offers 5 miles of finished trails, with an additional 5 miles scheduled for completion this year. These trails, traversing forests, crossing streams, and ascending slopes, cater to hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
The area encompasses Atherton Hill, Windham’s highest peak at nearly 600 feet. It also features 2,000 feet of frontage along Little Duck Pond and 1,500 feet of stream frontage, providing habitat for wild brook trout.
The adjacent Lowell Preserve, comprising 300 acres owned by the town with a conservation easement held by the Presumpscot Regional Land Trust, offers another 5 miles of multi-use trails.
“We’ve been enthusiastic about this project since the Town of Windham and Presumpscot Regional Land Trust initially shared it with us during its exploratory phase,” remarked Steve Walker, Director of the Land for Maine’s Future. “This project exemplifies the strength of public-private collaborations in protecting areas that support our wildlife, enhance our quality of life, and bolster our economy.”
The area’s development is divided into three phases. The grand opening marks the initiation of phase one, which includes a completed trailhead parking area, signage, 5 miles of trails, and breathtaking views of the western mountains.
Phase two will see the construction of the remaining 5 miles of trails, including a universally accessible trail designed for individuals with limited mobility. This trail will lead to a scenic overlook with captivating vistas of the Western Mountains.
Phase three, with its timeline yet to be determined, will involve the construction of an observation tower on top of Atherton Hill, providing panoramic views.
“The Town is thrilled about the diverse outdoor recreation opportunities created by acquiring and developing these properties into a conserved area,” said Linda Brooks, Windham Parks and Recreation Director. “Numerous partnerships have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition, and this unique outdoor recreation destination will be an invaluable asset, offering opportunities for walking, hiking, mountain biking, wildlife watching, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing, and cross country skiing. Designated trails will also allow for ATV riding and snowmobiling.”
William Sedlack, Executive Director of Presumpscot Regional Land Trust, commented, “This regional-scale project, serving both as a destination for outdoor recreation and a critical wildlife habitat, has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Land for Maine’s Future Program, the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, the Town of Windham’s conservation bond, lead business partner Gorham Savings Bank, numerous private foundations, and over 400 local individuals and families who have generously contributed to this project’s realization.”
For more information about the grand opening and this remarkable project or to RSVP, visit www.windhammaine.us/766/East-Windham-ConservationProject and h#ps://www.prlt.org/events
