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Author: Steven Hufnagel

Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in What's New

A letter from Executive Director Steven Hufnagel March 29, 2021 Spring returns! As the first green things poke up above ground, we too are feeling the promise of better times ahead as we emerge from the long Covid “winter.” I am grateful to you for helping us weather the challenges of this past year. You have been right there with us, inspiring us with your encouragement, kindness and support. Above all, your support made it possible for us adapt. Hopefully you were among the hundreds who enjoyed one of our online programs, now available on our website. Perhaps you or …

COVID-19 update – Spring 2021 Read More »

Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in What's New

We at Coastal Rivers are doing all we can to slow the spread of COVID-19.

This includes canceling in-person programs and closing our offices and indoor facilities to the public. We have moved our programming online for the time being. Our many public preserves and trails remain open and we encourage people to take advantage of this wonderful resource (while following public health guidelines, of course.) …

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Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in What's New

A Joint Statement to Our Members Our volunteers, members, and supporters are the true caretakers of the lands and waters of the Damariscotta River and Pemaquid River watersheds. You help to educate tomorrow’s river keepers. You make it possible to conserve treasured forests, farms, and islands. You enable the creation and maintenance of dozens of miles of trails and you play a vital role in keeping our waterways clean and healthy. Thank you! We are so grateful for all you do for the well-being of our local lands, waters, and communities and know you share in our deep connection to …

DRA and PWA Explore Opportunities for Collaboration Read More »

Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in What's New

A Personal Reflection on DRA’s New Water Quality Lab: (One reason) why I went to work for DRA When I was in the seventh grade, I had the chance to take part in a water quality study of Blue Heron Lake in Bedford, New York. Mr. Steele was a wonderful teacher at our public middle school with a special interest in environmental science, and he invited me and another boy in my class to join him in this project. For several Fridays in a row through the fall, we took turns rowing a boat around the lake and taking water …

Mr. Steele Gets a Twofer Read More »

Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in Uncategorized

The Fall issue of the Land Trust Alliance’s magazine Saving Land features a DRA Camp Mummichog camper on the cover and its lead article highlights DRA’s education work, as well as our skating rink. The article, “Fostering a Love of the Land,” focuses on land trusts connecting to community. The author applauds ways in which DRA creates meaningful change and lasting benefits in our area. Check out the full magazine here. Lots of great DRA photos are included, both in the table of contents and starting on page 14.

Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in Uncategorized

DRA has released a new video featuring Seal Cove Shore Preserve and our new trail system there. First shown at DRA’s annual meeting this summer, it takes the viewer through some of the trail’s best terrain and highlights how the trail is used and enjoyed by the community. It is dedicated in memory of Robert Gardner. Please check it out on our video page!

Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in Season's Successes, Uncategorized

On May 22, 2014, DRA was awarded the Damariscotta Region Chamber of Commerce’s 2014 Organization Community Service Award “for enhancing the community by adding to the well-being and quality of life in the region.” DRA Executive Director Steven Hufnagel accepted the award and his remarks follow. Many thanks to the Chamber Board of Directors and members for this meaningful recognition, for this wonderful event and for the work you do throughout the year to highlight the Damariscotta Region as an exceptional place to live, work and play. I’ve never seen the Chamber stronger and I think that is due to …

Chamber of Commerce Award Acceptance Speech Read More »

Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in What's New

The new DRA Davidson Preserve (see map) will add almost 93 acres to Dodge Point and connect to several other River~Link properties. While sold to DRA by Alida Busby, it is named after her husband Louis J. Busby Jr.’s mother’s family. The Davidson’s inhabited the land for generations and many of them are buried right next door. Did you know that Dodge Point straddles River Road? Most people visit the shoreward portion, but about a third of the land lies west of River Road. This spring the Damariscotta River Association (DRA) purchased from Alida Busby 93 acres of forest land …

DRA Purchase Expands Dodge Point, Fulfills a Wish Read More »

Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in What's New

Sarah Gladu has been promoted, from part time Education Coordinator to full time Education Director. We’re thrilled! Her full title is now Director of Education and Environmental Monitoring. This move is part of DRA’s strategic plan. It recognizes the growing success of DRA’s education programs for adults and youth. It reflects an increasing demand for these opportunities. It means more chances for kids to experience a wild island for the first time. More classes for adults on growing your own oysters or harvesting seaweed. More hands-on programs in schools and on our lands about Native American history and culture. A …

Sarah Gladu Promoted to Education Director Read More »

Posted on by Steven Hufnagel Posted in What's New

Land Trust Accreditation. It’s a stamp of approval from our industry, a peer-review of our practices. It demonstrates we are following the highest standards as a land trust. It’s a benchmark for enduring conservation work. We are pleased to announce that in late August, after a rigorous process lasting more than a year, DRA was officially recognized as an Accredited Land Trust by the national Land Trust Accreditation Commission. “We take the promise of perpetuity – that we will care for our conservation lands ‘forever’ – very seriously,” notes DRA Executive Director Steven Hufnagel.. “An award of Accreditation suggests we …

DRA Awarded National Land Trust Accreditation Read More »