HARPSWELL (AP) — The Maine Coast Heritage Trust says its effort to raise nearly $1 million to buy two uninhabited islands in Casco Bay and keep them open to the public has been a success.

Trust president Tim Glidden says the organization has raised $925,000 that will allow for the purchase of the privately-owned Goslings Islands in Harpswell and keep them open to paddlers, boaters and campers.

The Times Record reports that in the coming months, the trust will assume ownership of the Goslings and take on stewardship responsibilities including signage, maintenance of campsites, and caring for the natural habitat.

The trust also plans to keep the islands on the Maine Island Trail. The two islands total about 50 acres.

The islands have been owned by the Soule family.

Comments are not available on this story.