MLLT PARCELS
Meddybemps Lake Land Trust currently manages, in perpetuity, two land parcels totaling 503 acres, 46+ wetlands acres and over 4 miles of protected shoreline.
Staples Mountain - Parcel A
• 3.4 miles of shoreline frontage on Meddybemps Lake.
Ryan Lake - Parcel B
• Includes Ryan Lake ~ 12.7 acres
• Ryan Lake has 0.54 miles of shoreline
• 510 feet of shoreline on Meddybemps Lake.
Stewardship
Stewardship Includes
Land Improvements
One goal is to make this property accessible for public use through the development of hiking trails, picnic areas, and other light non-motorized use by the public including: fishing, camping, kayaking and canoeing, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. We also now offer educational opportunities and partnerships with local Washington County organizations and schools.
Forest Health
Meddybemps Lake Land Trust has received a grant from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to develop a comprehensive forestry management plan. We have partnered with a local Forester to begin work on this plan with a focus on improving the unique resources inherent to our area.
Wetlands Conservation
Welcome to MLLT, where we proudly manage over 46 acres of designated wetlands, as recognized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our land boasts more than four miles of beautiful frontage on Meddybemps Lake, significantly impacting the nationally recognized of Meddybemps Heath and the Dennys River.
We're dedicated to protecting these vital riparian zones, and we're fortunate to have a retired Wetlands Scientist on our Board of Directors, ensuring that we monitor and address wetland issues.
Join us in our mission to preserve these ecologically significant areas for future generations.
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Ecological Preservation
An inventory conducted by adjacent Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge
lists over 225 species of wildlife and rare plants supported by the local habitat. With such close proximity to the refuge, it is likely that the MLLT properties are serving to support a very similar diversity and number of species. Our forest is characterized by aspen, oak, maple, birch, pine, spruce, and fir, with many mature stands. Our proximity to the refuge also provides significant insights into
the appropriate management tools for conserving habitat for migratory birds
and threatened and endangered species.
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We are also fortunate to have a close working relationship with Lake Meddybemps Association. They participate in a number of studies, including an annual loon count, conducted for over 10 years. Additionally, in the summer of 2021, groups of Meddybemps Lake property owners undertook the first annual plant survey of the lake’s shoreline to create a baseline of existing conditions and assess the presence/absence of invasive plant species. These community-led efforts will continue to complement the initiatives undertaken by the Moosehorn Refuge and Meddybemps Lake Land Trust.
The MLLT properties were protected from development by the previous owner, and his desire to maintain the ecological health of the properties was a primary incentive for his transfer of the land to the MLLT. The members of the trust are committed to efforts that maintain the health of this treasured landscape, for its role in wildlife habitat, climate regulation, outdoor experiences, educational opportunities, and economic benefit for local citizens. With its educational programs and public space projects, the MLLT will continue to work to
ensure equitable access to the wildlife resources and experiences of this area.
How Can I Help?
Below are things everyone can do to help to keep lakes healthy:
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Limit stormwater impact. Stormwater events can flush harmful chemicals (such as pesticides) and excess nutrients (such as fertilizers) into waterways speeding the process of Eutrophication.
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Create and maintain riparian buffer zones. This means allowing a natural plant or forest buffer zone to remain intact close to waterways. Buffer zones limit the impact of stormwater and create valuable ecosystems for the flora and fauna that benefit our waterways.
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Closely monitor phosphorus, chlorophyll, and dissolved oxygen levels yearly in the spring, summer, and fall.
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Donate to MLLT to help in our conservation of over 4 miles of shore-front that acts as a valuable buffer zone for all of Meddybemps Lake!
The goal of Meddybemps Lake Land Trust is to protect the lake so that future generations can continue to enjoy it. Failure to do so can ultimately lead to a eutrophic condition and poor water quality. We proudly support the Meddybemps Lake Association (MLA) as they continue to monitor the health of Meddybemps Lake.