Georges River Land Trust (GRLT) is launching a major conservation effort to establish Sennebec Hill Preserve, in Union.

"This project will create the organization’s 25th public preserve and represents a transformative opportunity for local education and environmental protection," said GRLT, in a news release.

To finalize the acquisition, GRLT has launched a public fundraising campaign with a goal of $15,000.

The Sennebec Hill property sits just east of Sennebec Pond and the St. George River, which is a state-designated area of ecological significance, according to GRLT, in the news release. Although not directly on the pond, the property acts as a buffer to both Sennebec and Seven Tree Pond, which both are habitat to several species of threatened freshwater mussels.

"Directly abutting a 100-acre conservation easement, this new preserve creates a contiguous wildlife corridor, preventing development and preserving the natural integrity of this area along Sennebec Road," said GRLT. "Once completed, Sennebec Hill Preserve will be GRLT’s largest public preserve in Union, providing much-needed space for hunters, foragers, birdwatchers, and hikers."

Beyond protecting critical habitats, the preserve will serve as an outdoor classroom for local students, filling a need for publicly accessible land in the area, according to the release.

GRLT has received support for the project from Union Elementary School, Appleton Village School, and the Mid-Coast School of Technology, who plan to use the preserve for field trips and outdoor learning.

"We hope by protecting this corridor, students can come to learn about their local ecology and develop technical skills that inspire them to continue to care and steward our shared lands and waters," said GRLT.

How to Help

GRLT aims to conserve the property by September 2026. The land trust is halfway to its public fundraising goal and is calling on the local community to help raise $15,000 to contribute to conservation and stewardship costs. Those interested in contributing may donate online at georgesriver.org or by mail: GRLT, PO Box B, Rockland ME 04841. Please note that your gift is for “Sennebec Hill Preserve” on your check, or in the “What inspired your donation?” field on the online form.

Georges River Land Trust has been conserving and caring for the St. George River watershed since 1987. The land trust has conserved over 5,600 acres of forest, farm, and shoreline, and maintains over 80 miles of public trails in 19 towns from Montville to Cushing. This conservation work is supported by over 1,000 community members. Visit georgesriver.org to join the community and learn more.