Stetser Preserve
The Stetser Preserve is a wooded upland forest particularly rich in wildlife diversity because it is located within a 7,000-acre tract of roadless habitat.
Story of the Land
It has nearly 4,000 feet of protected frontage on an unnamed perennial stream and a small pond. The property was donated to the Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association, now Midcoast Conservancy, by Janet Stetser to ensure that the land will remain in a natural state forever.
Janet believes in the importance of land conservation. "My hope for the future would be to see people hiking, bird watching and just enjoying the out-of-doors in this peaceful and safe location that is close to home for local people”
“I feel strongly that if we do not set aside property now, we will not have any later.” - Janet Stetser
Sustainable harvest of timber is allowed as are trails for low-impact recreational use. Our trails wind through hilly woods and old logging trails; a short spur trail leads to a view of the property's beautiful pond.
What you Might See
The Stetser Preserve pond is over 2 acres in size. Although the pond is naturally occurring, it was partially filled in before the Stetser family purchased the property. However, in the late 1950s, Janet's father chose to take advantage of a state program that offered to restore farm ponds to their natural state. The restored pond was first stocked with fish by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in 1960.
As you walk the trails keep an eye out for wildlife. Janet says that over the years she has seen deer, moose, beaver, raccoon, fox, and many snowshoe hares on the property. Among her bird sightings have been pileated, downy and hairy woodpeckers, evening and rose-breasted grosbeaks, nuthatches, mourning doves, and barred and great horned owls.
Directions:
Stetser Preserve
Egypt Rd.
Jefferson, ME 04348
From Rt. 194 in Alna: Take the Egypt Road. In 2.5 miles, right to kiosk and parking.
From Rt. 215 in Jefferson: Take Egypt Road. In 1.25 miles, left to kiosk and parking.
