The South Portland Land Trust awarded its first scholarship to recent South Portland High School graduate Phoebe Little, who was chosen for the honor “based on her dedication to outdoor leadership, education and conservation,” according to a press release.

As part of the Maine Youth Wilderness Leadership Program, Little last summer conducted research and back country hiking in Baxter State Park. Little has also participated in the summer residence program offered by Coastal Studies for Girls, based in Freeport.

“It was an incredible surprise to be named the first recipient of the South Portland Land Trust scholarship,” Little said. “I’m so grateful to have grown up in a community of people who value and work to preserve Maine’s green spaces.”

The $500 scholarship award also included a copy of Jeff Ryan’s new book, “Appalachian Odyssey,” a South Portland trail map, and a free land trust membership.

Little will attend Smith College in the fall.

The South Portland Land Trust is committed to linking neighborhoods and improving the quality of life in South Portland through expanding the city’s trail network, conserving open space and educating the public on issues related to trails and open space.

It’s responsible for 16 properties and works to preserve natural habitats, trail access and open space for public enjoyment. See www.southportlandlandtrust.org for more information about the land trust, its mission and how to help.

– Kate Irish Collins

Phoebe Little, a recent South Portland High grad, has earned the South Portland Land Trust’s first-ever scholarship.