A Celebration of Watershed Conservation

The Maine Tree Farm Program Supports 6th Annual Woodland Owner Appreciation Day

In late September, nestled between the white pines and along the shoreline of Sebago Lake, 70 attendees gathered to celebrate the 6th Annual Woodland Owner Appreciation Day. Organized by a collaborative effort between Lakes Environmental Association, Portland Water District, and Sebago Clean Waters, this day marked the accomplishments of those working to conserve the Sebago Watershed and cautioned against a future in which the watershed’s forests are replaced by development.

Lakes Environmental Association Executive Director Colin Holme welcomes visitors to the 6th Annual Woodland Owners Appreciation Day. Photo Credit: Rooted in Light Media

The day’s activities highlighted the multifaceted nature of woodland conservation as visitors engaged with local organizations dedicated to watershed conservation and participated in guided forest walks. Led by experts including Jesse Duplin and Paul Larrivee from the Maine Tree Farm Program, the forest walks shared valuable insights into forest ecology, the impact of invasive species, and the importance of woodland management. These walks, along with others focused on forestry for Maine wildlife and an introduction to the Family Forest Carbon Program, emphasized to attendees the positive impact of forests on water quality.

Right: Paul Larrivee talks to participants about the impact of invasive species on forested ecosystems. Photo Credit: Rooted in Light Media Left: Jesse Duplin shows participants on the Forestry 101 walk how to use a Biltmore Stick. Photo Credit: Lakes Environmental Association

The need for such an event becomes clear considering the pressures facing the Sebago watershed. Losing as little as 8% of the forests surrounding Sebago Lake could significantly impact the water quality. Despite its critical importance, the watershed is at a high risk of losing significant forestland to development. With 234,000 acres at stake, of which 84% is forested, the goal set by Sebago Clean Waters and its partners—to conserve at least 25% by 2032—reflects a challenging but necessary ambition to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital resource.

Sebago Lake State Park, with its expansive 1,400 acres of diverse ecosystems, was the perfect spot for such an event. The area is of significant value within the Sebago watershed as Sebago Lake provides clean drinking water to ⅙ of Maine’s population, supports rich biodiversity, offers a variety of recreational opportunities, and contributes to local economies. 

Woodland Owner of the Year Winner Mary Ann Hague received the award in honor of her late husband, Bart Hague.

Photo Credit: Rooted in Light Media

The event’s highlight was the awards ceremony, where the Hague Family was honored with the Woodland Owner of the Year Award. This accolade celebrated their exemplary commitment to woodland management that prioritizes conservation, sustainability, and community engagement—principles that lie at the heart of the Woodland Owner Appreciation Day. Additionally, the Hague Family’s receipt of the first “Sebago Clean Waters Forest & Water Quality Award” underscored the profound impact of individual and family efforts in the broader context of watershed conservation.

Maine TREE’s Forest Programs Coordinator Kayci Willis talks to participants about the Maine Tree Farm Program.

Photo Credit: Rooted in Light Media