Downeast Lakes Land Trust

Downeast Lakes Land Trust is based in Grand Lake Stream, Maine. We protect lakeshores, improve fish and wildlife habitats, provide public recreation opportunities, offer educational programs, and support jobs in the forest and on the water. We are dedicated to the Downeast economy and environment.

Downeast Lakes Land Trust (DLLT) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2001 by local residents in Grand Lake Stream, Maine.

Our Mission

We contribute to the long-term economic and environmental well-being of the Downeast Lakes region through the conservation and exemplary management of its forests and waters.

Our Home

The Downeast Lakes region is the inland portion of the eastern corner of Maine. Our fisheries, including native landlocked salmon and brook trout, as well as smallmouth bass, are world-renowned. The area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer, black bears, bobcats, and at least 180 species of birds. The economy is highly dependent upon natural resources, which provide livelihoods for local craftsmen, guides, sporting camp owners and employees, and forest industry workers. The village of Grand Lake Stream is in the heart of the region, and has long been a destination for outdoor recreation.

Our Vision

In 2001 Downeast Lakes Land Trust laid out our strategy for the future – a bold vision to protect extraordinary natural resources and a way of life.

Many supporters and partners have helped us succeed in protecting 350,000 acres of the forests, wildlife habitats, watersheds, and lakeshores that can sustain the region’s future.

DLLT sustainably manages the 33,708-acre Farm Cove Community Forest, with 71 miles of lakeshore, for wildlife habitat, forest products, and public recreation. DLLT provides guides and sporting camps an environment that supports their continued success, contributing to the preservation of the heritage and culture of Grand Lake Stream.

The Chance to Complete the Vision

We’re now working to conserve a top priority of the original plan. The West Grand Lake Community Forest Project will protect a key 21,870 acre gap in a nearly 1.4 million acre international wildlife corridor between Maine and New Brunswick. Success of this project is essential to protecting the character of the region. It includes 17 miles of undeveloped shoreline on West Grand, Lower Oxbrook, and Big lakes. These lands will continue to be a source of sustainable forest products and public recreation, and will provide valuable forest and wetland wildlife habitats.

Forests and Lakes – For People – Forever (r)