The Islands Initiative
SINCE 1970
Protecting Maine’s Islands
Thousands of islands, with all their variety and beauty, define the character of Maine’s iconic coast. To protect this unique legacy, MCHT is working from the Isles of Shoals in Kittery to Cobscook Bay along the Canadian border to protect priority islands, permanently open them to the public, and ensure birds and other wildlife will always find refuge on the coast.
Beginning in 1970, MCHT has worked with local, state, and federal partners, as well as generous landowners, to protect more than 330 entire coastal islands. We now own and steward 89 coastal island preserves with public access. To learn more about specific projects and fundraising goals, please get in touch.
Be Part of the Movement
Donating to the Islands Initiative means supporting the over 100 coastal islands we’ve identified as top priorities for future protection through conservation easements and direct acquisition.
Where We’re Focused
These key components guide our efforts to protect island ecosystems, preserve scenic beauty, and expand vital public access for generations to come.
Recreation & Public Use
For thousands of years, people have found adventure and respite on Maine’s islands, and in today’s fast-paced world these places and the transformative experiences they offer are needed more than ever. Through the Islands Initiative, MCHT will create more coastal recreational opportunities, and build and steward island trail systems and campsites for boaters in cooperation with local land trusts and recreational groups like the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA).
Wildlife Habitat
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, islands account for less than 5% of the Earth’s land yet are home to an estimated 20% of all bird, reptile, and plant species, as well as 40% of all critically endangered species. Maine islands provide critical shelter, feeding, roosting, and nesting habitat for birds of all kinds, including wading birds, seabirds, shorebirds, and migrating birds.
Nesting Birds
MCHT plays a vital role in the conservation of seabird nesting islands by purchasing and stewarding, or transferring them to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge. To date, MCHT has had a hand in protecting dozens of National Refuge islands and helped restore Arctic, common, and roseate terns, Atlantic puffin, and razorbills to Maine islands.
Scenic Beauty
MCHT was founded by people who recognized the singularity of the Maine coast and could not stand to see it squandered through overdevelopment. Our experience of the coast would be a lot different today if it weren’t for their foresight and generosity. Your gifts will keep more iconic viewscapes whole and accessible, and ensure Maine’s world-class cruising waters remain forever beautiful.
For More Information:
Nicky Blanchard
Senior Director of Communications & Philanthropy
(207) 729-7366
Email Nicky
Misha Mytar
Director of Land Protection
(207) 801-4049
Email Misha
*MCHT reserves the right to allocate additional funds raised toward this project where most needed in accordance with our mission
