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New Meadows River & Woodward Cove

The New Meadows River and Woodward Cove focus area lies east of Route 24, including shoreland and upland near the New Meadows River. It includes Upper and Lower Coombs Islands, and Woodward and Buttermilk Coves. This focus area is valued for its large blocks of undeveloped forest and state-identified significant tidal wadingbird and waterfowl, as well as shorebird feeding and roosting habitats. The coves and river are significant resources for fishermen and shellfish harvesters as well as boaters.

New Meadows River & Woodward Cove properties:

Click the image below to learn more about each property in this conservation focus area.

Howard Point

The Howard Point Property is a 35 acre easement property located between the New Meadows River and Thomas Bay.

Lower Coombs Island

Lower Coombs Island is a 23 acre easement property on an island in the New Meadows River.

Neptune Woods

Neptune Woods is a 64-acre parcel on Brunswick Landing complete with trails perfect for runners, hikers, and all levels mountain bikers.

Upper Coombs Island

Upper Coombs Island is a 7-acre easement property in the New Meadows River.

Woodward Cove

Woodward Cove provides key access for wormers and clammers to some of Brunswick’s most productive mud flats.

Woodward Cove – Degen

Woodward Cove – Degen is a 13 acre parcel located at the headwaters of Woodward Cove.

Woodward Point Preserve

Woodward Point Preserve is an 87.5 acre property with over two miles of shoreline on the New Meadows River in Brunswick, extensive open rolling meadows, pine and hardwood forests, a freshwater pond, and several water access points.

New Meadows & Woodward Cove Resources at a glance:

Land-based Recreation

  • Trails
  • Hunting

Water-based Recreation

  • Fishing
  • Clamming
  • Swimming
  • Boating

Shellfish Harvesting

Rare Natural Communities

  • Salt-hay Saltmarsh

Significant Wildlife Habitat

  • Tidal Wadingbird and Waterfowl Habitats
  • Shorebird Feeding and Roosting Habitat
  • Significant Vernal Pools
  • Healthy Eel Grass Community

Rare Animal Species

  • Saltmarsh Sparrow

Rare Plant Species

  • Mountain Honeysuckle

Agricultural Lands

  • Open fields

Notable Landscape Features

  • Opportunities to support marsh migration (sea level rise)
  • Important marine resources