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Eastern River Preserve
Location and Description
Location: Pittston, Maine
Property Description: This 50 acre property features over 4,100 feet of frontage on the Eastern River, an extensive oxbow, and 1,800 feet of frontage on Otter Creek. A 14 mile-long tributary of the Kennebec River, the Eastern River starts in East Pittston at the confluence of its west and east branches, and flows southwest past the historic village of Dresden Mills into the Kennebec River.
Located off of the Blodgett Road in Pittston, this KLT Preserve will be managed to protect wildlife habitat and water quality, for low impact outdoor recreation, and for nature observation. A short meandering path will provide public access to the River and will feature the property’s mixed hardwood and conifer forest, 1,800 feet of frontage on tidal Otter Creek, and scenic views of the Eastern River and an extensive oxbow.
This permanently protected conservation property protects important wildlife habitat for wood ducks, common mergansers, and mallards, and wading birds including great blue herons and American bittern, as well as bald eagles, osprey, kingfisher, and the species they eat, such as alewife. In addition, the riverbanks serve as travel corridors for white-tailed deer, bobcat, coyotes, and black bear. Many areas along the riverbank support large trees, providing nesting sites for pileated woodpeckers and barred owls.
Directions and Public Access: From Route 27 in Pittston, head east on the Kelley Road. Travel for 2.4 miles, then turn right onto the Blodgett Road. Follow the Blodgett Road south for almost two miles. Turn left into a small parking area. Look for the wooden KLT property sign and registration box.
Trails: The short, 0.5 mile Otter Creek Trail features scenic views of Otter Creek and the Eastern River, an extensive oxbow, and a hand-carry access point for paddling.
Note: Watch your footing - some portions of the trail are uneven. Check for ticks after hiking!
Dogs: For the protection of wildlife habitat and hikers, dogs should be under voice command or on a leash. Please pick up after your pets.
Eastern River Preserve, Photo: Theresa Kerchner