2002 Annual Report

STEWARDSHIPMCHT took on 21 new holdings in 2002, bringing itstotal to 60 properties and 116 easements. To better manageits growing responsibilities, the Trust has hired a mid-coaststewardship associate (based in Somesville) and a part-timestewardship assistant on Vinalhaven.CHRIS HAMILTONCareful stewardship planning has helped to enhance MCHT's WitherleWoods Preserve.Staff and volunteers focused their attention on severalproperties during 2002. At the Witherle Woods Preserve inCastine, community members helped MCHT manage theforest to reduce fire and safety hazards and foster a greaterdiversity of flora and fauna. Following its acquisition ofWhaleboat Island in Casco Bay, MCHT completed abreeding bird survey, natural resource inventory and usesurvey. The Maine Conservation Corps further enhanced itspast successes at MCHT’s downeast preserves, improvingtrails at the Hamilton Cove, Boot Head and Western Headproperties. Staff workdays at Calderwood and Pond Islandshelped to create new trails, clear existing trails, and expandmeadows and views on these exquisite preserves.In Summer 2002, the Trust launched a newConservation Easement Registry to help ensure thateasements are well cared for over time. Land trusts, stateagencies and other easement holders can now voluntarilyenroll their easements in the Registry, an informationaldatabase that MCHT will maintain. The Registry helps toprovide a safety net and back-up layer of protection foreasements throughout Maine.20 Maine Coast Heritage Trust