Why We Must Succeed With The Crystal Spring Farm North Capital Campaign

WE ARE LOSING THE LAND THAT SUSTAINS US

In Maine, more than half of our agricultural land has been converted into residential and commercial development during the last forty years, and the rate of that development in the Brunswick area is accelerating. The 2002 Brunswick Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan stated that "over the past twelve years, between 50-60 new housing units have been added each year…. As the town grows, new residences continue to nibble away at important open spaces." Since 2002, even more new housing units have been built annually. For generations, Crystal Spring Farm has been the serene rural signature of our town, thanks in particular to the stewardship of the Dionne Family over the last 70 years.

The loss of farmland and working farms has significant economic, environmental, aesthetic, and cultural impacts on our community and state.

WE ARE RECONNECTING PEOPLE AND PLACE

Crystal Spring Farm has been a working farm for most of its history. Its fertile sandy loam soils are among the best in the area, and it sits over one of Brunswick's most significant aquifers. The farm is home to a wide array of wildlife, particularly birds, and the forest is remarkable within Brunswick both for its diversity and for the richness of its under story. In addition, it offers joggers, walkers, bikers, and motorists recreational opportunities and some of the finest rural views in the region.

During the acquisition of Crystal Spring Farm South, BTLT held a series of Community Farm Days where hundreds of community members helped plan the future use of the farm. In response to those expressed needs and desires, the land trust has:

• Built a network of hiking and cross-country-ski trails;
• Established a farmers' market;
• Returned the land to active and sustainable agricultural use; and
• Sponsored a wide variety of community events.

The farm is also used regularly and year-round by nearby Bowdoin College, effectively functioning as an "extension" of the college campus. In addition to using the trails on the farm, Bowdoin students maintain an organic garden at Crystal Spring Farm South, providing the Bowdoin Dining Service with a variety of fresh produce all summer.

Crystal Spring Farm North will enable BTLT to expand the agricultural use of the farm and help insure its long-term health.