SLT recently protected 30 acres of undeveloped forests, riparian lands, and wetlands, including over 1,800 ft of frontage along the Nonesuch River.
The property protects land within SLT’s Nonesuch River Focus Area. The Nonesuch has been identified as a critical resource as it is Scarborough’s longest river and the primary source of fresh water to the Scarborough Marsh, Maine’s largest contiguous salt marsh and area of statewide ecological importance. The river is also part of an Aquatic Core Network, that, if protected, will support a broad diversity of aquatic species and the ecosystems on which they depend.
A majority of the property, carved out from 88 Mitchell Hill Road, is located in Gorham. However, the property will be owned and managed by the Scarborough Land Trust, which has prioritized safeguarding the river to ensure its protection. “The Nonesuch doesn’t follow town boundaries,” said Scott Kunker, Conservation Director of SLT. “Instead, it flows through three towns- Saco, Gorham, and Scarborough- as it makes it way to the marsh. Given the river’s significant role in Scarborough, it was crucial for SLT to protect this property.”
The river and adjacent lands act as a major wildlife corridor in Scarborough, and contain Core Habitat for Imperiled Species, including the Maine Species of Concern Wood Turtle. Maine’s reptiles are threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation, and as Scarborough’s landscape continues to develop, habitat protection is critical for reptiles to survive.
Important, too, are the wetlands found on the property. Functioning like a sponge, they absorb and slowly release water, helping to mitigate the effects of storms, flooding, and drought, particularly in the face of climate change. They also filter water by trapping sediments and removing excess nutrients as the water flows toward the Marsh.
SLT will create trails and recreational opportunities for the public including access for hiking, wildlife observations, and fishing. The Nonesuch is known to contain wild Brook Trout and is stocked by the State with Brook and Brown Trout as well.
“Safeguarding property along the Nonesuch River is essential for the long-term vitality of the river as well as the Scarborough Marsh,” said Andrew Mackie, Executive Director of SLT. “This property will protect additional open space for wildlife, support endangered species, and offer more recreational opportunities for Scarborough residents.”
The newly protected land is expected to become a vital resource for community engagement, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation, education, and ecological research.
