A Treasure Hiding in Plain Sight

Across Maquoit Bay from the much debated parcel at 946 Mere Point is a great real treasure. We have often walked the trail with our two dogs and always find it a treat — and so little used. Why is this?

In 2007, this land was dedicated as conservation land to be used for recreation by the residents of the town of Brunswick. However, few use it and most are even aware of its existence. This is a 167-acre parcel that has over a mile of saltwater frontage on the bay and nearly doubles the town’s public access to the water. Where is the promotion of this parcel? Why isn’t this being discussed and being made more visible to the public? How many of those who ask for more access to the water have walked the trail to the end where the view is spectacular and the water is warm? It has great scenic views with excellent birding opportunities, productive clam flats, access for canoeing and kayaking and, of course, swimming.

As was written in 2007 in a press release by The Trust for Public Land, which was involved in the creation of this conservation land, “the Maquoit Bay property boasts three freshwater streams, a unique rocky promontory that provides spectacular views of Casco Bay and its islands, and swimming access to the warm shallow bay. With over a mile of trails for walking and cross-country skiing, and potential canoe and kayak access to Maquoit Bay and Casco Bay, this property has great recreational value to the town. It provides important habitat for migrating and nesting shorebirds and, in addition, supports commercial clamming.”

Sen. Snowe said in this same press release, “Conserving these 167 acres of forested land on Maquoit Bay will be instrumental in enhancing public access to the waterfront and protecting significant wildlife habitat along southern Maine’s coastline.”

Susan Collins said: ”The Maquoit Bay property protects important wildlife habitat while providing open space and public access opportunities along Maine’s southern coast. I am proud to support this worthwhile project and it is a pleasure to see it now protected in perpetuity. Maquoit Bay is one of Maine’s coastal gems, and conservation of its fragile resources is a great legacy to pass on to future generations.”

U.S. Rep. Tom Allen said: “I was pleased to be able to secure funding for the project. I want to commend all of the partners who have worked so hard to move this effort forward, especially the landowners for their generosity and cooperation.”

Don Gerrish, former Brunswick Town Manager, said: “The tremendous scenic, recreational and ecological aspects of these properties provide an unparalleled asset to the residents of Brunswick. It was a pleasure working with everyone who ensured the success of this project, from the landowners to the Trust for Public Land to our state and federal contacts.”

How needed is the small parcel on Mere Point with its precipitous drop to the water, making it difficult to access the waterfront, when this under used treasure is just across the bay and easily accessible with ample and expandable parking? Doesn’t it make sense to make use of and improve on the properties already available? Let’s be fiscally responsible and sell 946 Mere Point, put the money gained to use on existing properties and put the Mere Point property back on the tax rolls generating income for the town rather than expense. Let’s finally, nine years after its creation, make the Maquoit Bay conservation area the treasure it deserves to be.

Prentiss and Leslie Weiss,
Brunswick

Church and State

The Faith Notes column of Sept. 2 contains the sort of distortion of truth — if not lie — that is rampant these days and should not be published by a responsible paper.

In speaking of the Ten Commandments, Ms. Merrill said: “These words have raised a lot of public ire in the last decade, including from people who want them thrown out of American courts and schools. We want personal freedom — the release from the constraints that limit our behavior.“

The direct implication is that the Ten Commandment are being removed because people don’t like what they say. That is not true. They are being removed because people see their presence as violating the separation between church and state. Ms. Merrill must know this and to imply something else is wrong. In the Christian world we might even call it a sin.

Sallie Smith,
Freeport

Support for Berry

I write to express my strong support for Seth Berry who is running for State Representative this November to represent Bowdoin, Bowdoinham, Swan Island and most of Richmond.

Seth Berry is committed to the importance of education, policies that support a strong middle class, stewardship of natural resources and vibrant communities. As a teacher, I saw Seth inspire students to learn and develop their interests and talents. When he served in the Legislature I saw his successful leadership on practical and effective laws that help businesses and workers. And in all his efforts, I see a person who cares deeply about the significance of community to the quality of life and the values of looking out for one another and hard work.

I will proudly vote for Seth Berry for State Representative.

Karin Tilberg,
Bowdoinham