In Smithfield, Maine, there is an exceptional place with diverse ecological features including wetlands, forest, scrub shrub, and fields. Located between Route 8 and the Serpentine Stream, the Greer property encompasses 98 accessible acres of fields and woods with stream frontage connecting East Pond and North Pond in the Belgrade Lakes watershed.
For more than 10 years, the Sebasticook Chapter of NAVHDA has used the property to hold a number of events:
As stewards of the property, Sebasticook NAVHDA has maintained the ecological and wildlife habitat for not only events such as these listed above, but also for members of the surrounding community to enjoy as well:
Sebasticook NAVHDA has maintained a good relationship with the current owner over the years and now has an opportunity to purchase the 98-acre property. The Chapter’s leadership has launched a fundraising campaign to raise $150,000 toward the purchase of the property in early 2018.
When we own the property, the Chapter’s use of the land will total fewer than 60 days each year. For the remainder of the year, the property will continue to be open to schools for educational purposes, universities and state agencies for ecological studies, organizations to hold Heritage events, and to the public for fishing, bird watching, picnics, and access to canoeing and kayaking.
Development of the property poses a threat to the shore land and wetlands, to water quality, and to migratory and nesting bird populations. Protecting the shore land and water quality is critical to maintaining this Versatile Place as an important wildlife habitat and recreational area. If not protected, this land will likely be sold for development. We want to make sure the property remains undeveloped and that local citizens and the public have access to enjoy the space for years to come.
Sebasticook NAVHDA is a 501(c )(3) nonprofit. Our chapter members are individuals and families who are animal lovers and hunting dog owners. Our goal, first and foremost, is to maintain the Greer property as open space accessible to all.
You can help us by making a gift or pledge today to the campaign for A Versatile Place. Your donation will support land conservation, water and soil protection, public access to a treasured property, wildlife habitat, and education and heritage events.
We would be honored to recognize you, your family or your business as a donor to the campaign for A Versatile Place. Gifts may be pledged and paid over two or three years.
Gifts and pledges are tax deductible and can be mailed to:
Sebasticook Chapter of NAVHDA
Attn: Peter Dumond
87 North Main Street, Mechanic Falls, ME 04256
Bob England
newfogo@gmail.com
207-798-9275
Greg McNeal
uplandhunter@roadrunner.com
207-215-7849