Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
Western Foothills Land Trust (WFLT) announced it has acquired an 85-acre property on the eastern shore of Moose Pond in Otisfield, permanently protecting more than 3,500 feet—more than half a mile—of undeveloped shoreline, and expanding opportunities for public recreation and conservation.
The property includes mixed forest, extensive wetlands, and expansive shoreline on a beaver pond that provides habitat for fish, waterfowl, amphibians, and other wildlife. Located immediately adjacent to the Town of Otisfield’s Two Ponds Nature Area, the property creates a connected 180-acre conservation and recreation area.
“This is a once-in-a-generation conservation opportunity for Otisfield,” said Korey Morgan, Executive Director of Western Foothills Land Trust. “Few places combine this much undeveloped shoreline, wildlife habitat, and recreational potential in a single property. Conserving this land ensures that future generations will be able to experience Moose Pond much as it exists today.”
“The conservation on Moose Pond is an incredible win for the people of our town,” said Peter Tilkimeier, Chair of the Otisfield Conservation Committee. “This project represents an investment in our community’s future, and protects forests and shoreline while creating new opportunities for recreation, outdoor education, and conservation. The property is connected to the Two Ponds Nature Area and creates a 180-acre community asset. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Western Foothills Land Trust.”
Conserving the property protects important ecological features, including more than 20 acres of wetlands that support sensitive wildlife habitat, while protecting the water quality of Moose Pond. Moose pond is a beaver pond that provides habitat for a range of wildlife while helping filter water, reduce downstream flooding, recharge groundwater, and support diverse natural communities.
WFLT is working with the Town of Otisfield and community partners to determine how the property can best serve the community while protecting its natural resources. Potential uses include low-impact hiking trails, shore-based fishing access, wildlife observation areas, interpretive signage, and outdoor education.
The acquisition builds on years of work by WFLT, the Town of Otisfield, local volunteers, conservation partners, and residents to protect the property.
“Our goal is to ensure that people can hike, fish, paddle, hunt, watch wildlife, and enjoy the outdoors while protecting the ecological resources of the property,” Morgan said. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Town of Otisfield.”
The acquisition was made possible through support from Land for Maine’s Future, the Davis Conservation Foundation, the William P. Wharton Trust, the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund, the Maine Community Foundation, the Ram Island Conservation Fund, and anonymous private supporters.
