BOOTHBAY HARBOR (AP) – An island that is designated a National Historic Landmark and was one of Maine’s earliest settlement sites has been transferred to a local land trust.

The 210-acre Damariscove Island, located five miles from Boothbay Harbor, was transferred this month from The Nature Conservancy to the Boothbay Region Land Trust.

Land trust directors said they intend to increase education and research opportunities on the island, while rebuilding a crumbling stone pier.

Nancy Sferra, director of science and stewardship for the conservancy’s Maine chapter, said The Nature Conservancy tries to transfer holding to local organizations when it can. The organization now holds about 70 properties in its Maine portfolio, and averages three transfers each year to local groups.

“When land trusts have the capacity to do the task, we know that the preserves will be well-managed and cared for, and our original intent will be maintained,” Sferra said.

Damariscove Island has served as a haven for seabirds and fishermen for the last four centuries. It was an Abnaki tribal fishing spot and port for Europeans as far back as 1600.

It is now home to Maine’s largest breeding colony of common eiders, with more than 1,500 pairs returning each spring. The island’s north end is protected habitat, while the south end is open to hikers, picnickers and small educational tours.

The commitment is strong at Boothbay Region Land Trust, said executive director Dawn Kidd.

“The island basically will be managed the way it has been,” Kidd said. “But because we are local we have great relationships with the lobstermen, we have easy boat access and the desire to run some more educational programs.”

Damariscove Island has been uninhabited since the 1940s, except for seasonal caretakers who protect the eider habitat and welcome summer visitors. A small museum features historical information and artifacts.

The Boothbay trust raised more than $320,000 to maintain the island, along with a $100,000 endowment from The Nature Conservancy. The trust can spend about $12,000 each year while continuing to increase the endowment, Kidd said.

The trust also plans to spend about $100,000 to rebuild the stone pier, with work expected to begin this summer.