Working to Increase Access

Independence Association  

Since 2018, we’ve partnered with staff and clients from the Independence Association (IA), a local non-profit based in Brunswick that assists adults and children with disabilities in obtaining a full and inclusive life in their chosen communities. For three years, IA staff, led by Casey Clougherty, have worked with a group of interested clients in clearing and keeping trails clear at Crystal Spring Farm – North, one of the most well used Land Trust trail systems. Looking to expand and care for more trails in the community, since 2021 the trail group has visited Neptune Woods weekly and beginning in 2022 have also been visiting Androscoggin Woods. In order to deepen this partnership, the Land Trust raised funds during 2022’s Giving Tuesday thanks to generous community members to finance IA staff and clients building and installing benches along the trails that they monitor, allowing resting intervals in beautiful areas for visitors.

Andy’s Trail at Woodward Point 

In partnership with Maine Coast Heritage Trust and thanks to the generous support of donors, construction began in September 2022 on a new half-mile long accessible trail and parking area to facilitate greater access for visitors at Woodward Point. Named in memory of one of the property’s longtime owners, Andy Cook, who conserved the property with his wife Jacki Ellis in 2019, Andy’s Trail will provide a flat, compact surface for visitors who use a wheelchair, push a stroller, or simply want to enjoy breathtaking views of the property. Stay tuned for updates on the status of trail construction!

Get Active Southern Midcoast Partners Trail Assessments  

Thanks to funding provided by Mid Coast Hospital, the Get Active Southern Midcoast partners, including BTLT, worked with Enock Glidden last fall to conduct trail assessments and consultations towards improving access across the trails in our area. Enock is a disabled athlete, adventurer, motivational speaker, and an advocate for others with disabilities. We are grateful to have Enock’s guidance in assessing and starting to plan for improved access on some of our most beloved trails and thanks to recent grant funds from Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority, will be able to conduct additional trail assessments in 2023.