OXFORD — The benefits of nature-based education are quantifiable by academic and personal growth metrics. Western Foothills Land Trust recognizes this value and has been working to improve access to sites to be used as forest classrooms near many grade schools in the SAD 17 district.

On Feb. 15, the Norway-based land trust purchased an 83-acre tract of land, to be named the Oxford Forest Preserve, located between Allen Hill Road and the Little Androscoggin River, near Oxford Elementary School.

This parcel is one of the former Chadbourne Tree Farm properties acquired in 2020 by White Pine Forest, LLC, a partnership of The Conservation Fund and the Malone Family Land Preservation Foundation. This purchase marks the third successful collaboration between Western Foothills Land Trust and The Conservation Fund, emphasizing these organizations’ shared commitment to preserving Maine”s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Situated close to the town center, this land stands as a beacon of outdoor engagement for the community, particularly benefiting the students of Oxford—an area recognized for its limited access to such resources.

“The more we collectively strengthen through education and enjoyment our inherent connection to the lands around us, the more we all benefit,” said Tom Duffus, The Conservation Fund’s vice president and northeast representative based in Freeport.

“It’s my hope – and the hope of all who helped complete this project – that this land will be a destination of inspiration for generations to come. Thank you to all who helped make permanent this spectacular new addition to the community.”

The property boasts an impressive 1,056 feet of frontage along the Little Androscoggin River, providing river access for serene nature observations and recreation. This feature enhances the value of the parcel, making it an ideal setting for a variety of activities including hiking, snowshoeing, backcountry touring, mountain biking, fishing, equestrian pursuits, and snowmobiling on the ITS 89 trail, which is maintained by local snowmobile clubs.

In line with Western Foothills Land Trust”s mission to conserve native ecosystems, farm and forest lands, watersheds, and scenic landscapes, the property encompasses diverse habitats.

These include the Northeastern Coastal and Interior Pine-Oak Forest, Appalachian (Hemlock)-Northern Hardwood Forest, and North-Central Appalachian Acidic Swamp, nestled within a larger 1522-acre block of undeveloped forest.

Additionally, the land contains 0.31 acres of wetland and a significant 47.28-acre aquifer, underscoring the ecological value and the conservation potential of this acquisition.

The addition of recreational trails on this property will not only enhance public access to nature but also contribute to the physical and mental well-being of the community. By integrating nature-based education and recreational opportunities, Western Foothills Land Trust aims to foster a deeper connection between the residents of western Maine and their natural surroundings. The Trust has plans to build a parking area, install a trailhead kiosk, and further develop the recreational trails with an official opening planned for later this year.

“We are excited to welcome the Oxford Forest Preserve into our family of conserved lands,” said Kacy Bailey, Executive Director of Western Foothills Land Trust. “This acquisition not only protects vital ecosystems and scenic landscapes but also opens up new avenues for community engagement, education, and recreation in western Maine.”

Western Foothills Land Trust extends its gratitude to The Conservation Fund who, through its partnership with an anonymous foundation, provided more than half of the purchase price for the parcel. Other project partners include: the Land For Maine’s Future Trust Fund, Maine Community Foundation, the Northern Forest Center, an anonymous donor, and individual donors.

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