Coastal Mountains Land Trust has been protecting land in the watersheds of western Penobscot Bay since 1986. As we celebrate our 20 th anniversary this month, we also celebrate our accomplishment of having protected over 5,200 acres of land in this rapidly developing part of Maine.

The mission of Coastal Mountains Land Trust is to establish a system of conservation lands that permanently protect biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and agricultural, forest and water resources; to promote awareness of the value of land conservation; and to provide opportunities for the public to enjoy and experience natural lands.

The Land Trust is currently focussed on four key projects:

• Bald and Ragged Mountains in the Camden Hills-We are trying to protect over 3,300 undeveloped acres in these two mountains for their natural resources, scenic value, and opportunities for public recreation.

• Passagassawakeag Greenway-This project offers several trails for public access along the upper reaches of the Passagassawakeag River in Belfast.

• The Ducktrap River and its watershed-To date, we have protected 83% of the land along the River, home to one of the last runs of endangered wild Atlantic salmon.

• Beech Hill Preserve-Our very first conservation project, this 300-acre preserve in Rockport features an historic stone hut on the hill's summit (soon to be restored), panoramic views, and an organic blueberry farm.

We offer outings and events throughout the year to encourage people to enjoy Land Trust preserves and trails. For more information, please contact Kristen Lindquist at (207) 236-7091 or visit www.coastalmountains.org.

Hikers enjoy the view of Ragged Mountain from the Bald Mountain Preserve in Camden.