High Peaks Alliance is deeply saddened by the loss of Dr. Arthur “Art” Lage, a devoted board member, conservationist, naturalist, and friend. Art died on July 30, 2026, following a short illness with cancer. He was 82.

Art brought to High Peaks Alliance a lifelong curiosity about the natural world and a profound appreciation for the places that make western Maine so special. A resident of Phillips, Maine, as well as Marshfield, Massachusetts, he was an avid hiker, kayaker, explorer, reader, and educator. He understood that conserving land is about more than protecting acres—it is about safeguarding the forests, waters, wildlife, quiet, and opportunities for discovery that connect people to a place.

His life reflected an exceptional commitment to learning, service, and care. Art practiced as a veterinarian and later joined the faculty at Harvard University, where he served as Director of the Harvard Center for Animal Resources and Comparative Medicine and as an Associate Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School. He was widely respected in his field, including for his leadership in veterinary internal medicine and his contributions to renal physiology and urological surgery.

To High Peaks Alliance, Art offered the perspective of someone who cared deeply about both science and stewardship. His love for Maine’s woods and waters, his inquisitive spirit, and his belief in the importance of conservation will remain part of the legacy he leaves in this region.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Art’s wife, Susan Carestia; his children, grandchildren, stepchildren, siblings, and all who loved him. We are grateful for the time, wisdom, and dedication he shared with High Peaks Alliance.

Art’s memory will live on in the landscapes he valued and in the continuing work to protect Maine’s High Peaks region for the people, wildlife, and communities who depend on it.

Those wishing to honor Art’s memory are invited to make a gift to High Peaks Alliance, helping carry forward his commitment to conserving the woods, waters, and wild places he loved.