The parcel slopes gradually toward the Scarborough River Estuary where two large ponds can be found teeming with life. Natural springs feed the pristine ponds which overflow into the Scarborough Marsh. A majestic stand of white pines trim the land at the marsh's edge, and trees that were once home to bald eagles.

 

 

 

The History of the Sanctuary

A citizens' initiative in the early 70's convinced the State of Maine to acquire the land for preservation. Citizen interest in protection of the parcel has been strong for almost three decades.

This property has been preserved for wildlife habitat for over 25 years under protection of the State. The land was purchased by the State of Maine with federal land conservation funds in 1971 and was purchased for preservation.

The property was previously managed by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife as a feeding area for waterfowl.

On March 30, 1989, the State conveyed the land to the Town of Scarborough with the restriction that it be used for recreational purposes. The Town Council convened a committee, known as the Scarborough River Committee, to determine the best use for the parcel and propose a master plan. This Committee worked for two years studying the parcel and designing the Sanctuary and proposed its adoption to the town.

Controversy erupted during the next two years concerning the Sanctuary. The Town had not officially adopted the Sanctuary plan proposed by the Scarborough River Committee and a group of citizens initiated a petition for more intensive use of the land. The original citizens group that formed 25 years before joined with members of the Scarborough River Committee to fight for preservation. In 1996 a plan known as the Scarborough River Park was adopted by the Town Council but later rescinded. Then, in 1998, the Town Council authorized the Recreation Advisory Committee to study the land again. A proposal to officially establish the Sanctuary was forwarded to the Town Council in October of 1998 and was ultimately enacted as an ordinance in January of 2000. It is now an official wildlife sanctuary with protection of local law.

 

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  The Historical Significance of the Sanctuary

  The Scarborough Historical Society has written about the historical importance of the site and described artifacts that have been discovered at the Sanctuary. Information is available through the Society.

   

  The late local historian Emily Bellows documented the historical significance of the site in her essay entitled Blue Point, Scarborough (circa 1968). Her piece was based on information found in Grandfather Tales of Scarborough (Augustus F. Moulton), and includes the well-known story of "Indian Jane" who lived on the site, Legend has it that she was the one who carved a date into a large stone which can still be found at the marsh's edge. Mrs. Bellows concluded her essay with these words:

   

  "It is the hope of many of the residents and friends of Scarborough that this venerable land may be as it was in the days of Jane, a shelter for all life."

   

    On Wildlife and Habitat

   

  The Sanctuary is unique it its rich diversity of habitat. Many conservationists have explored the site and written of its ecological importance. Local teacher and biologist Ellen Ross uses the Sanctuary as an outdoor science laboratory and has conducted several studies with her students at the site.

  Wildlife Biologist Robert Bryan of Maine Audubon Society has written of the Sanctuary's importance to the Scarborough River Estuary in a January 23, 1997 letter to the Scarborough Town Council:

   

  "The upland wildlife value of this site is of particular importance due to its proximity to the Scarborough River estuary. The development of upland habitat surrounding the estuaries and salt marshes has a negative effect on the overall ecological integrity of the marsh ecosystem."

   

  Two extensive wildlife and plant inventories have been conducted at the Sanctuary by members of Maine Audubon and the Conservation Commission. These inventories document the sightings of several rare species of birds. While no longer a nesting site for Bald Eagles (from which, we are reminded, came the name of nearby "Eagles Nest Drive"), these magnificent birds are observed there from time to time throughout the year.

   

  The Sanctuary's ponds are very sensitive areas teeming with life. They are outdoor classrooms for ecologists, teachers, nature enthusiasts and families. Dr. Rick Churchill, Director of the Plant & Soil Department of Southern Maine Technical College, and his staff have worked with students for the past five years to establish diverse tree plantings around the pond areas.

   

  Current Use of the Sanctuary

   

  The Sanctuary is currently used by bird watchers enjoy its relative isolation. Hikers appreciate the natural trails which weave their way toward the marsh and around the ponds. Teachers bring their classes on field trips to study the ponds, plants and birds, and gain access to the marshland for estuary studies. The Sanctuary is well cared-for by those who use it; it is rare that trash or other evidence of human intrusion is found there.

   

  For more information about the Sanctuary, contact Community Services, Town or Scarborough, at 207-883-4301.