Aldermere Farm & Erickson Fields
These community preserves demonstrate the power of conservation to connect people with land, farming, the natural world, and one another
CONSERVING LAND & COMMUNITY
Aldermere Farm & Erickson Fields
Nestled on the western shore of Penobscot Bay in Rockport, Aldermere Farm, with its world renowned Belted Galloway cattle, has been a regional landmark for generations. Since 1999, statewide land conservation organization Maine Coast Heritage Trust (MCHT) has owned and managed the 136-acre saltwater farm as a community preserve and agricultural educational center.
Neighboring Erickson Fields, a 164-acre preserve conserved with the help of Maine Farmland Trust in 2009, offers hiking trails and community gardens. Both places are home to agricultural programming for youth and supply fresh, nutrient-rich beef and produce to local food pantries. They also serve as test grounds for regenerative agriculture techniques, which are shared with area farmers and incorporated into programming.
Looking Forward
In 2024, through donor support, MCHT concluded a capital campaign resulting in critical new infrastructure and equipment. Now staff can more efficiently and effectively care for the farms and further invest in programs and collaborations with community partners, including schools, artists, and gleaners. A new, solar-powered, accessible barn and visitor center will connect thousands more to this work, and showcase the value of conservation, local food systems, and climate-conscious farming practices.
Your Gift in Action
Your support today builds on this monumental achievement and makes it possible to maintain and grow these agricultural preserves as community resources.
Both of these farms do a lot to make our community a better place for everybody.
— MCHT Supporter
Donate
Make a difference for these important community resources!
Your gift today will help ensure future generations grow up connected to the land, our rich farming heritage, and one another.
For more information about giving, please contact:
Aaron Englander,
Associate Director of Stewardship, Aldermere Farm/Erickson Fields
(207) 230-9031
Project Details
Town/County: Rockport, Knox County
Fundraising Need: $755,000 to support programming and maintenance of these conserved lands, working farms, and community resources.
Fundraising Deadline: December 31, 2026