A most favorable union
Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust represents the 2019 union of the Damariscotta River Association (DRA), incorporated in 1973, and Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA), created in 1966 as the Biscay Pond Association.
DRA and PWA had been operating side by side, often in close partnership – and for a period of time out of the same office – for over 50 years when the two organizations decided to become a single entity.
DRA and PWA had much in common:
- Both groups had formed in response to direct threats to the health of their namesake water bodies.
- Both were working to conserve the lakes, ponds, rivers, and estuaries of the Damariscotta-Pemaquid region, with DRA focused on the Damariscotta River estuary and Johns Bay, and PWA dedicated to the Pemaquid River watershed and the remainder of the Pemaquid Peninsula.
- Both had active programs in land conservation, environmental education, water quality protection, public access, and trails.
- And both were guided by professional staff, infused with vibrant volunteer energy and deep membership commitment.
The leadership of the two organizations recognized that the challenges of climate change –especially for wildlife and water quality – demanded that they amplify their efforts to conserve and connect the most significant natural areas in our region, address threats to water bodies, create more capacity to steward the lands and trails in their care, and ensure organizational sustainability. They concluded, through a process of careful study over many months, that the most effective pathway to do so was through organizational unification.
In the Fall of 2018, both memberships voted overwhelmingly and enthusiastically to join forces and become Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, and by the following spring they were able to celebrate their legal union.
So many of the hopes of that union are being realized:
- Land conservation has accelerated in our service region, with the addition of thousands of newly conserved acres in just a few years, including more than two miles of fresh and saltwater shoreline.
- Protected wildlife corridors are taking shape.
- Watershed protection and sampling efforts are growing in scope and scale.
- Outdoor education programs are reaching more youth and students of all ages.
- Our trail system is growing in length and quality, with a focus on accessible trails for all.
The pressures of climate change and habitat conversion are not abating. The need for action is greater than ever. That’s why we’re working toward the positive outcomes we seek in our communities, natural areas, and other special places.
The good news is that as a larger and more nimble organization, still energized by a team of professional staff and dedicated volunteers, Coastal Rivers is able to focus its efforts even more strategically.
We are able to work more closely with partner organizations and municipalities to guide compatible development, to promote well-sited affordable home creation, to expand walking and biking connections throughout our service area towns, to conserve working waterfront access, and to support farming and food security.
A bold agenda requires bold investment, but we’re confident that with the help of community members and visitors alike who love this region as we do, we can build on our history of local conservation success and meet the challenges and opportunities the future holds.
With your help, we can stay nimble, creative, and effective. This translates to ensuring the region we love a great place to live, work and play and where nature and community meet!
