Magalloway Conservation Initiative Aims to Protect 78,000 Acres in Western Maine
Editor’s Note: I’m delighted to share the recently announced The Magalloway Collaborative—a true example of an integrated approach to conservation. Four organizations with different conservation missions and strengths are leading this historic effort to protect 78,000 acres in western Maine. Much of Maine’s forest land has suffered from degradation due to a long history of overharvesting. Because of the willingness of these organizations to work together, this important project for the region will connect half a million acres of contiguous conserved lands from the east to the west, helping to improve biodiversity and forest resilience in the face of climate change. Their work can serve as a model for other organizations who also want to make a meaningful, large-scale conservation impact. This is a complex project that we will continue to learn about and explore in future issues. – Marissa Latshaw
In a landmark effort to preserve the natural heritage of western Maine, four prominent conservation organizations have joined forces to launch the Magalloway Project—a comprehensive, integrative initiative to permanently protect 78,000 acres of forests, rivers, and wildlife habitats in the Magalloway region. This ambitious endeavor not only seeks to safeguard critical ecosystems but also aims to bolster the regional economy through sustainable forestry and recreation.
The Magalloway River flows into Parmachenee Lake. Photo © Ben Pearson
A Collaborative Conservation Effort
The Magalloway Collaborative comprises The Nature Conservancy (TNC); Forest Society of Maine (FSM); Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust (RLHT); and Northeast Wilderness Trust (NEWT), a Wildlands, Woodlands, Farmlands & Communities partner. Together, these organizations are working to raise $62 million by May 2026 to fund the project, which represents one of the most significant land conservation efforts in the region.
David Miller, Executive Director of RLHT, emphasized the project’s importance: “We have an incredible opportunity before us with the Magalloway project to conserve 78,000 acres and effectively connect more than 500,000 acres of conserved lands to the east and west. This effort supports our region’s climate resiliency, helps prevent the loss of biodiversity, and preserves public access.”
Balancing Preservation and Sustainable Use
The project area, currently owned by Bayroot LLC and managed by Wagner Forest Management, will see a multifaceted approach to conservation:
Managed Timberland: Approximately 62,500 acres will remain under Bayroot’s ownership, with a conservation easement held by Forest Society of Maine. This easement restricts future development while allowing intensive forestry practices to continue, ensuring the land’s economic viability.
Wilderness Preserve: NEWT is playing a leading role to permanently protect 11,200 acres of this land as a wilderness preserve, giving the landscape a chance to rest and heal through rewilding. The northern section of the parcel, encompassing the headwaters of the Magalloway River and upland forests of Ledge Ridge and Rump Mountain, will be protected to enhance forest and biological diversity.
Recreation and Habitat Restoration: RLHT will own and apply ecological forestry practices to manage over 4,000 acres for public access and wildlife habitat restoration, including corridors along the Little Magalloway and Magalloway Rivers.
Paddlers on the Magalloway River. Photo © Jerry Monkman
Ecological Significance
The Magalloway region is renowned for its pristine waterways and diverse wildlife. It is one of the last strongholds for self-sustaining native brook trout populations in the United States. The conservation plan includes 100-foot, no-cut buffers along high-priority brook trout streams to enhance habitat, regulate stream temperatures, and maintain water quality. These buffers, in aggregate, create another 2,400 acres of permanently protected land around the streams within the timberland easement. This is significant for habitat connectivity, especially considering the development pressure on this landscape.
Judy Camuso, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, highlighted the project’s ecological impact: “The Magalloway region possesses prime wildlife habitat. Conserving these lands will safeguard wildlife from increasing environmental threats; connect them to other conserved lands; and allow for sustainable recreation, such as hunting and fishing, to continue.”
Common Loons on Aziscohos Lake. Photo © Jerry Monkman
Public Access and Cultural Heritage
Maintaining public access is a cornerstone of the Magalloway Project. The land will remain open for traditional recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, boating, and snowmobiling. Notably, the project ensures the preservation of a main section of the International Trail System (ITS)-84, a vital snowmobile corridor connecting Maine and New Hampshire.
The collaborative also acknowledges the cultural significance of the land to the Wabanaki Tribal Nations, the People of the Dawnland. The project aims to create opportunities for the Wabanaki Peoples to strengthen and re-establish their cultural and spiritual caretaking of this place.
Boreal forest just north of Parmachenee Lake in Maine’s northern forest. Photo © Jerry Monkman
Climate Resilience and Carbon Sequestration
By keeping these 78,000 acres forested and allowing the growth of old forests in the wilderness preserve and along waterways, the project contributes to increased carbon sequestration and storage. This effort aligns with Maine’s climate action goals and provides a haven for species adapting to climate change.
A Call to Action
Jon Leibowitz, President and CEO of NEWT, highlighted the project’s unique strengths and the chance to be part of something transformative: “Collaboration is at the core of this historic effort. Not just between the four partner organizations, but in the conservation impact itself. When expansive wilderness, recreational access, watershed protection, and managed timberlands are all thoughtfully conserved together, the benefits ripple outward—to people, wildlife, and the climate, and for the local communities. But this vision depends on the support of those who care deeply about conservation. We invite you to learn more and join us in making it a reality.”
The Magalloway Collaborative is actively seeking support to reach its $62 million fundraising goal. Contributions will fund land acquisition, stewardship, and ongoing conservation efforts. For more information or to support the project, visit magalloway.org.
Courtesy of The Magalloway Collaborative
Marissa Latshaw works with mission-driven organizations to build empathetic and inclusive communication strategies that inspire action. She is the publisher of From the Ground Up and co-coordinator of the Wildlands, Woodlands, Farmlands & Communities initiative, working with partners throughout New England to help bring a more holistic, integrated approach to land conservation. Marissa resides in Connecticut where she’s always up for a walk in the conservation area adjacent to her home.