By Kirsten Brewer, Director of Membership & Programs
As I wrote up this description of our next “hidden gem property” the Vassalboro Wildlife Habitat (VWH), I was interrupted by a local baker dropping off bread, cookies, and pastries for me. During the pandemic, local businesses and the supply chain are adapting in new and creative ways to ensure we have food and other necessities. Trucks on the interstate indicate that food and goods are still being produced and shipped; albeit with delays on some needed products. The history of the Vassalboro Wildlife Habitat is a reminder of how our local landscape and local economies have changed so much.
The one-mile Alewife Amble Loop on the property crosses an historic trolley line, taking your imagination back to the early 20th century. In 1909 the trolley line opened and connected the rural town of Vassalboro to the cities of Waterville, Augusta, and Lewiston. The trolley line was abandoned in 1932. Local rail lines connected not only passengers, but also goods from Vassalboro farms. In the 1800s, farmers had cleared this land for crops and pastures, and mill owners dammed the pond for water power. All of these historical land uses created changes that we still observe on the landscape; drainage patterns and soil conditions influence the vegetation, and ultimately the wildlife habitats, that we can see today.
What we are experiencing today will no doubt change Maine forever. I am hopeful that, like nature, we will be resilient. We are lucky to have a strong heritage of agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and entrepreneurs, to carry us into the future. When you visit VWH I hope you reflect not only on where we have been, but also on where we are going.
Photo: Maine Memory Network