Frenchman Bay Conservancy Expands its Tidal Falls Preserve!

On Monday, March 21, Frenchman Bay Conservancy expanded its Tidal Falls preserve in Hancock. The 29 year old land trust purchased 2.7 acres adjacent to its flagship preserve, and 318 feet of frontage on the Taunton River resulting in roughly 8 acres total. The new property contains the red house overlooking the picnic area of the preserve. The purchase marks the beginning of a multi-year effort to improve the preserve, restore portions of the waterfront, and expand upon the educational and stewardship opportunities Frenchman Bay Conservancy is currently able to offer local communities and out-of-town visitors.  The purchase of the red house will provide a permanent and sustainable base for the land trust's operations.

The Tidal Falls Preserve overlooks the channel between Hancock and Sullivan linking Taunton Bay and Frenchman Bay where powerful tidal currents create beautiful reversing falls. Locals and out-of-state visitors alike frequent the preserve to picnic and enjoy the spectacular falls, and the Tidal Falls preserve is especially popular on Monday nights during July and August when Frenchman Bay Conservancy hosts their weekly, free, outdoor concert series. 

Bald eagles, eiders, kingfishers, seals and other wildlife are frequent sights at this popular picnic destination. Kayakers regularly paddle the rapids, launching from the FBC parking lot. The preserve has a rich history, including being the site of an early iteration of the Maine Central Railroad’s Hancock ferry connection to Bar Harbor in the late 19th century. In the last century, the Hodgkins family operated a lobster pound and buying station, and then later a seafood take-out restaurant for many years. Frenchman Bay Conservancy bought the property with broad public support and a grant from the Land for Maine’s Future program. 

“This place is such a popular and accessible destination, and a great illustration of why conservation matters in eastern Maine” said FBC’s Executive Director, Aaron Dority. “It was a pleasure working with Lilla Phinney and Frank Hodgkins to purchase this property, and we’re excited at the future possibilities for this special place.”

The 2016 Monday Music series will begin on July 11, 2016. More information, including a complete list of concerts, can be found on the Frenchman Bay Conservancy Facebook page and website.