The Nature Conservancy in Maine

Wells Barren Hike

Date:
Saturday, August 23, 2008

Time:
9:00 am to 12 pm

Overview:
In November of 2007, The Nature Conservancy and Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Wells Water District (KKWWD) partnered to purchase and protect a 543-acre parcel in Wells called Wells Barren. Along with the Kennebunk Plains, Wells Barren contains 90 percent of the known global population of the Northern blazing star, and a suite of rare plants, birds and reptiles listed as threatened in Maine. The protection of Wells Barren is essential to providing habitat for such endangered and threatened species as the grasshopper sparrow, upland sandpiper and vesper sparrow, as well as the Northern black racer snake, spotted turtle, eastern box turtle and a compliment of other species. Wells Barren will be managed and maintained with the careful and strategic use of prescribed fire. Join Parker Schuerman and Jon Bailey, Southern Maine Land Stewards, for a hike into one of our newest preserves. Limit 25 people. Easy hike. As space is limited, reservations are required.

Find out more about Wells Barren.

To Register:
Please email maine_events@tnc.org and indicate which trip, the number and names of participants and your contact information.

Guide:
Parker Schuerman and Jon Bailey, Southern Maine Land Stewards

How to Prepare for the Hike:
Bring a beverage, plenty of water and lunch or snacks depending on the time of day. Also bring binoculars, camera, field guides, sunscreen, bug dope, etc., to make your day more enjoyable. Rain or shine, so dress for the weather. Long pants and sturdy shoes are recommended.

Directions to Wells Barren, Wells Maine:
From the North or South
• I-95 in Maine to Wells (exit 19).
• At the stop light (after the toll booth), turn right (west) onto Rt. 109.
• Travel approximately 6 miles along Rt. 109 and turn right onto Wire Road.
• Travel east on Wire Road approx. 1.5 miles to a small parking area in front of a gate in a forest on your left (north side of road).