Lobster Cove Meadow Preserve is comprised of 46.8 acres of wetlands, fields, and forested uplands. Exceedingly rich in wildlife, with over 140 species of migratory and nesting birds having been sighted, it is also inhabited by a variety of other creatures. Wildflowers adorn the meadow from spring to fall, attracting multitudes of butterflies. A connection on the southern end of the preserve leads to the Appalachee Preserve which provides an additional 1.5 wood loop to the network.
The property was the site of extensive sand and gravel pits from colonial times, and also was actively farmed well into the 20th century. Farm animals once grazed the meadows, which were also cut for hay. In 1880 the stream traversing the wetlands was dammed, creating a large lake that was used for a thriving business harvesting, storing and selling ice. The ice was cut, held in big sheds, probably insulated with sawdust to hold it even through the summer, and sent down wooden runs to the head of Lobster Cove for shipment on schooners. The ice works closed in 1907 and although the dam gradually deteriorated, a population of beaver managed to keep the water level up. In 2007, BRLT repaired the dam to stabilize the water level and secure this critical part of Lobster Cove Meadow’s outstanding wildlife habitat.
The property was purchased by BRLT in 2002, protecting its valuable ecosystem, its fields, woodland, and traditional trails. Several of the trails lend themselves to cross country skiing, as well as hiking, bird watching, and botanical surveys; ATVs are permitted on one, which is clearly marked, and the meadow is the site of picnics and school outings. Near the entrance to the preserve there stands a granite monument inscribed “For the children”, expressing the wish of one of the major donors who made the purchase possible, to keep the property to open for all to enjoy, most especially the younger generation.
The Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT) manages the preserve and has worked to preserve the scenic beauty of the Boothbay region since 1980 through conserving land for the benefit and enjoyment of the residents and visitors.
BRLT properties are open for quiet, low impact activities. When visiting this BRLT property, please observe the following rules:
This trail passes through a property that was acquired in part with funds from the Land for Maine’s Future program. For more information about the LMF program and the places it has helped to protect, please visit the LMF webpage.
Visit Boothbay Regional Land Trust online for more information and a printable map or contact:
From the junction of ME Routes 27 and 96 in Boothbay Harbor, take 96 and proceed about 0.3 miles to Eastern Avenue. Turn right onto Eastern Avenue and in less than 0.1 miles you will see parking and a Boothbay Region Land Trust sign on your left. Follow the trail sign. Please stay on the trail and respect the privacy of the abutting home owners.
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