Midcoast Conservancy has completed a new conservation easement protecting 108 acres of forest, wetlands, and wildlife habitat along Pettengill Stream in Union.

"The property, now called Herbie Hill for the landowner’s beloved tortoiseshell cat, will remain permanently conserved, safeguarding an important stretch of land within the Upper Medomak River watershed," said the Conservancy, in a news release.

Located off North Union Road, the conserved property includes a mix of forestland, wetlands, and open space that supports wildlife and helps protect the health of Pettengill Stream, a first-order stream that flows into the Medomak River. The easement protects approximately 1,100 feet of stream frontage, helping to maintain water quality, aquatic habitat, and the natural functions of this important tributary, said the release.

“Small headwater streams like Pettengill are the lifeblood of larger river systems,” said Erika Presley, Land Conservation Manager, “protecting the land around these streams helps safeguard water quality, wildlife habitat, and the resilience of the entire watershed.”

Conserving the lands surrounding water, and in this project ones that feed the mainstem of the Medomak River, is a huge accomplishment, said the Conservancy. "Midcoast Conservancy could not do this work without landowners who have such a deep love and connection to the land and want to make sure future generations have access to these vital places. Herbie Hill is a special place, conserving a diversity of forest types, wetlands, headwaters, and agricultural land."

The landowner says, “this is my opportunity to leave something good behind in the world, and this conservation easement is my gift to the planet.”

The conserved property is part of a larger 999-acre unfragmented forest block and lies within an important Focus Area and the broader 12 Rivers Conservation Corridor. The land includes approximately 10 acres of wetlands with approximately 8 acres that are classified as significant wetlands. The property also supports roughly 17 acres of Inland Waterfowl and Wading Bird Habitat.

After decades of stewarding the land themselves, the landowners approached Midcoast Conservancy in 2020 about permanently conserving the property. After several years of planning and collaboration, the project has now been completed, ensuring the long-term protection of this ecologically valuable landscape. 

By protecting land along Pettengill Stream, the project helps maintain habitat for birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife while contributing to the long-term health of the Medomak River system. Conservation of headwater streams and the forests that surround them plays a critical role in maintaining clean water, reducing flooding, and supporting biodiversity across the Watershed.

Midcoast Conservancy works with landowners and communities to protect and steward the lands and waters that define the midcoast region.

"Projects like this highlight the valuable role private landowners play in conserving Maine’s natural heritage for future generations," said the Conservancy.

For more information about Midcoast Conservancy’s land protection work, visit midcoastconservancy.org.

Midcoast Conservancy is a vibrant regional land trust that works to protect vital lands and waters on a scale that matters. The organization works throughout the Sheepscot River, Medomak River, and Damariscotta Lake watersheds. Midcoast Conservancy manages over 16,000 acres, including 55 preserves and over 90 miles of trails. For more information, visit to midcoastconservancy.org or call (207) 389-5150.