Jan. 1 marked the official merger between Medomak Valley Land Trust and Midcoast Conservancy. As a result, Midcoast Conservancy now comprises conserved lands and trails stretching from Bristol and Friendship to Montville, as well as the watersheds of the Medomak and Sheepscot rivers and Damariscotta Lake. The expansion of the organization creates exciting opportunities for both staff and volunteer capacity. Medomak Valley Land Trust (MVLT) has a dedicated cadre of volunteers whose time, talent and expertise will enhance the scope and quality of Midcoast Conservancy’s efforts across midcoast Maine. A celebration of the merger and recognition of the volunteers is planned for January 25th, from 5-7 pm, at the MVLT office at 25 Friendship Road in Waldoboro.

Joan Ray, who has served as MVLT’s Land Conservation & Stewardship director, joins Midcoast Conservancy as its lands manager. Ray said, “Having grown up in Damariscotta and seeing the numerous changes that have happened over the years in this region, I recognize the importance of protecting land to ensure that the things we care about remain into the future – land to hike on, places for animals to migrate and breed, clean water to support our local fisheries.” She added, “The economies of scale engendered by this merger will enable us to conserve more land as well to as increase our water quality work and bring additional educational and recreational programs to the Medomak Valley watershed.”

“We are thrilled about the scope and breadth of Midcoast Conservancy now that we have joined forces with MVLT,” said Jody Jones, Executive Director of Midcoast Conservancy. “The numbers tell the story: 92 conservation easements, 55 preserves, 12,259 acres preserved and over 85 miles of trails are in our care now. And with Joan’s help, we will be able to do even more to protect the lands and waters we all love.”

All are welcome to attend the celebration on Jan. 25 at the Waldoboro office. Staff will be on hand to meet, hear from and talk with anyone interested in Midcoast Conservancy’s work caring for the lands and waters and how the organization gets families outdoors and active in the midcoast area. For more information, go to www.midcoastconservancy.org or call (207) 389-5150.