3. The Carl and Barbara Segerstrom Preserve at Squam Creek
The Preserve at Squam Creek is located between West Shore Road and Squam Creek at the center of the island. The 160 acres preserve, managed by Kennebec Estuary Land Trust, protects 3,300 feet of western shore of the creek and it’s habitat rich wetlands. Located near the historic center of town, the preserve offers hiking and exploring of several old farm sites and historic home cellar holes built by some of our earliest permanent settlers.
The Preserve at Squam Creek offers has three important conservation characteristics: extensive wetlands, wildlife habitat, and recreation. First, the property features a significant wetland complex surrounded by continuous forest. This wetland complex serves as valuable habitat for inland waterfowl, wading birds, deer and moose and is a rich shellfish habitat. Oysters are harvested in Squam Creek. In addition, the Kennebec Estuary supports federally endangered Atlantic salmon and short-nosed sturgeon. Finally, the property supports equally diverse recreational opportunities: an extensive trail system provides access for hiking, biking, cross country skiing, hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
On the property is a rooftop boat launch that provides one of the Westport Island’s only public access points on the lower Sheepscot River. These recreational opportunities will be a permanent part of life on Westport Island.
