Kennebec Land Trust offers outdoor options as one popular spot’s parking area is closed

WINTHROP — The Kennebec Land Trust reminds those looking to get outdoors that most of its properties are open, with a few exceptions, and visitors report light traffic on the trails.
The trust wants to thank all visitors who have responsibly used KLT trails during these tough times. Last month, we posted a list of recommended hidden gem properties on its site. The trust has added the Reynolds Forest in Sidney to the list. Trust officials say it’s a wonderful property for exploring signs of spring.
The Mount Pisgah Conservation Area, a popular hiking destination managed by the town of Winthrop and the land trust is closed to the public.
Despite signs requesting hikers use other recreational properties if the parking lot was full to ensure uncrowded trails and safe parking and road conditions, vehicles have been overflowing the lot and creating safety issues along the road.
The town, in conjunction with staff at the Land Trust, attempted several tactics to keep the property open. Recent roadside parking bans designed to limit the number of people on the property at one time and maintain road safety were unsuccessful, with people continuing to park along the road and on the private property of local residents, and created difficulty for service vehicles trying to access private homes along the road.
“This is an unfortunate change as we recognize that people need places to get outside, but given the repeated flouting of parking and regulations designed to keep the number of people limited for physical distancing, trails safe, and the roadway uncongested, it’s a step we must take,” said Sarah Fuller, chair of the Winthrop Town Council. She added, “As conditions warrant, we will re-evaluate the situation and hopefully will be able to open Mount Pisgah to visitors again soon.”
The area will be regularly patroled by Winthrop Police and violators may be fined.
KLT reminds those getting outside, of how to do it safely:
* Per Gov. Janet Mills’ executive order, individuals must wear cloth face coverings in public settings where other physical distancing measures are difficult to maintain. Ideally the trail you visit is not crowded, but bring a face covering just in case. * Recharge in your neighborhood. * Visit a lesser-known spot. * Have a plan B (and C). If your first destination has a busy parking lot, go to the next spot on your list. * Get outside earlier or later in the day to avoid peak times. * If you are exhibiting symptoms related to COVID-19, or if you have recently been exposed to COVID-19, please stay home. * Stay at least six feet away from other people. * Stick to easy trails to avoid injuries and further stress on health care resources.
The trust will not open the Norris Island cabin/campsite or the Wakefield Wildlife Sanctuary Cabins to visitors during May. The trust is following the state Restarting Maine’s Economy plan, and will adjust practices accordingly.
For more information, visit tklt.org.

PHOTO: The Curtis Homestead Conservation Area in Leeds is one of the Kennebec Land Trust’s “hidden gems.” (Maureen Milliken photo)