NEWCASTLE — A partnership between Mexicali Blues and Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust has resulted in significantly improved access and a new extension of the existing trail at the Marsh River Bog Preserve, according to the Conservation Trust, in a news release.

The project relocates the preserve's trailhead to behind the Mexicali Blues flagship store and warehouse on Route 1. Previously, the original parking area at Marsh River Bog was hemmed in by trees, located in a wet area, and could only accommodate two to three vehicles.

As part of the finished project, Mexicali Blues granted a permanent right of way for a new spur trail and has opened up a new dedicated parking area for preserve visitors. To ensure the project's success, Mexicali Blues provided Coastal Rivers with a $45,000 grant to construct the substantial new spur trail.

Construction was led by the Kennebec Trail Company, a local business owned by John Copeland. The new trail is designed to be smooth and wide, significantly improving accessibility for all visitors.

The partnership extended well beyond financial support. In late October, a joint work day brought together 26 Mexicali Blues staff members and thirteen Coastal Rivers staff and volunteers. The enthusiastic crew hauled brush, lopped roots, removed trash, and began construction on a rock turnpike—an elevated trail section lined with rocks to improve durability and prevent erosion.

“Marsh River Bog Preserve is right in our backyard, and we are thrilled to help make it more accessible for our neighbors, our staff, and visitors to Newcastle,” said Mexicali Blues CEO Topher Mallory. “This partnership with Coastal Rivers reflects so much of what Mexicali Blues believes in: caring for people, supporting community, and protecting the natural places that make this region so special. Seeing our team out on the trail alongside Coastal Rivers staff and volunteers was a powerful reminder that when we invest in the places around us, we create something lasting and meaningful together.”

Marsh River Bog features a gentle, forested loop trail located just off Route 1, offering views of a beautiful dwarf spruce bog, according to the news release.

"This unique ecosystem hosts interesting flora that thrive in wet, acidic, low-nutrient environments, such as wild cranberries and pitcher plants," said the release.

 The new trailhead and spur trail are open for visitors.

Trail maps and more information for visitors may be found online coastalrivers.org/trails/marsh-river-bog/.

Mexicali Blues is dedicated to ethically bringing the wares of the world to their stores, empowering the communities and cultures that create them, and sharing meaningful experiences with their customers. As a certified B Corporation, Mexicali Blues commits to social and environmental responsibility. The company pledges to donate 20% of profits to organizations that make the world a better place. For more information, visit mexicaliblues.com.

Coastal Rivers is a non-profit, member-supported, nationally accredited land trust caring for the lands and waters of the Damariscotta-Pemaquid Region by conserving special places, protecting water quality, creating trails and public access, and deepening connections to nature through education programs. For more information, email info@coastalrivers.org or visit coastalrivers.org.