This 97-acre property in Vassalboro was donated to KLT in 2005 by Elizabeth Davidson. (Please note, to protect sensitive bird and wildlife habitat, dogs are not allowed. Thank you for your understanding.) Near Taber Hill Road, the property features approximately 10 acres of blueberry fields. The trails feature fields, woods, and an impressive wetland with a stream flowing through it (a fen).
KLT owns four properties that are managed for blueberry production. The most common species of blueberry in Maine is the lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium). It is a small shrub that grows roughly 4-15 inches tall, and produces small but sweet berries. These small plants are the primary commercial blueberry crop in Maine. Another species found in Maine is highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum). Highbush blueberries can grow over six feet high, and can have berries up to 2-3 times larger than the lowbush species.
The lowbush blueberry fields at the Davidson Nature Preserve are mowed on a rotating basis so the blueberry bushes can be pruned to the ground. In the growing season immediately following fall mowing, plant growth occurs and flower buds are formed. In May of the following year (the crop year), flower buds open and bloom and berries develop. Without this management, the fields would revert to forestland--ecologists call this succession. It was the land donor’s explicit wish that the blueberry fields be open to the public for (non-commercial) picking. The open blueberry fields also provide valuable food for pollinators.
This is one example of the work of KLT’s stewardship program. KLT staff, with the assistance of summer interns and many volunteers: build and maintain trails; install signage and trailhead boxes; actively manage the land to reach our conservation goals; and respond whenever there is an issue on our properties. Thank you to our members,your support makes this all possible!
While it is too early in the season to enjoy blueberries, we hope that you enjoy a walk through the fields and into the woods at the Davidson Nature Preserve.