The conservation of Shiloh pond started when concerned citizens noticed that the 215-acre parcel was for sale. People began asking if there was any way to preserve this property. That’s when the High Peaks Alliance (HPA) reached out to our partner, The Trust for Public Land (TPL), to see if this was a project that they would help with. After a tour of the property, they were convinced. Working with the Town, we have been hosting community forest planning meetings to prepare the town owning its first parcel of conserved land. These meetings have looked at costs, recreational uses, management implications and are giving the town time to consider this project.
The project has been awarded a Maine Natural Resource conservation program grant for the full purchase price. The transaction costs are being covered by private individuals and other grants. This means the parcel will be offered to the town at no cost. The Trust for Public Land is closing in on their funding goal but help is still needed. The Town will also need help to fund management activities and road improvements. During the town meetings there have been interest in improving the roads, access to the water, and adding trails to the property. Please reach out to [email protected] if you would like to contribute or get involved.
A video teaser of recent drone footage that we have been taking. Thanks to Adam and Laura Casey for the photography!
