NEWCASTLE — Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust announces a partnership with Mexicali Blues to develop a trail connecting Mexicali Blues' Route 1 headquarters to the Marsh River Bog Preserve in Newcastle. This project aims to extend the existing trail and also improve access to the preserve.

A new trailhead will be located at the parking lot of Mexicali Blues’ Newcastle retail store, replacing the existing trailhead at Marsh River Bog and offering a more welcoming and accessible entry point for visitors, according to Coastal Rivers. Construction is being led by Kennebec Trail Company, a local trail-building service owned by John Copeland.

In late October, an enthusiastic crew of twenty-six Mexicali Blues staff and thirteen Coastal Rivers staff and volunteers came together for a joint work day. Their efforts included hauling brush, lopping roots, beginning the construction of a rock turnpike—an elevated trail section lined with rocks to improve durability and prevent erosion—and removing some trash.

The project is on track to be completed this fall, providing the community with a new way to connect with Maine’s beautiful natural scenery.

Topher Mallory, CEO of Mexicali Blues, shared his enthusiasm: “We’re so excited to have a way to connect with Maine in such a natural way right here at work — where having a meeting and going for a walk in the woods don’t have to be mutually exclusive.”

"The collaboration highlights Mexicali Blues’ dedication to creating a positive work environment that promotes health and personal growth. It also advances Coastal Rivers’ efforts to expand outdoor access and foster community engagement through conservation and recreation," said Coastal Rivers.

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.