Names become part of how we know a place. We see them on trail signs and maps, use them when sharing directions, and associate them with the experiences and memories we make there. But names also carry histories, and sometimes learning more gives us a reason to reconsider the ones we carry forward. For Frenchman… Read more
Frenchman Bay Conservancy is excited to welcome Nate Hanson as our new Executive Director, joining FBC at an important moment as we approach our 40th anniversary and look toward the future of conservation in Downeast Maine. For many in the FBC community, Nate is already a familiar face. He has been involved with the organization… Read more
Frenchman Bay Conservancy has expanded the Captains Roll Conservation Easement in Amherst, conserving an additional 233 acres along the West Branch Union River. The extension permanently protects more than 2,000 feet of river frontage from future subdivision and development, adding another important piece to a growing corridor of conserved land along the West Branch. Part… Read more
A selection of work from the youth segment of FBC’s inaugural creative writing contest, Stories from Here. Learn more about the contest and its connection to our mission here. Youth Fiction Winner Selected by Hazel Stark Bear Needs a Friend Anna-Leigh Turner, age 10 It was a hot summer day and the animals went… Read more
This Journal is for Everyone! When visiting the Ellsworth Riverwalk, be sure to check out our Community Nature Journal! The Frenchman Bay Conservancy Nature Journal can be borrowed from the Ellsworth Public Library‘s front desk for use along the Ellsworth Riverwalk Trail. The Nature Journal comes in a kit with colored pencils and everything you… Read more
A selection of essays from FBC’s inaugural creative writing contest, Stories from Here. Learn more about the contest and its connection to our mission here. Essay Winner Selected by Margie Patlak Barnacle Dreams Karen Olga Zimmermann Do you look up when you walk, like my hiking pal who is always on the watch for… Read more
A selection of stories from FBC’s inaugural creative writing contest, Stories from Here. Learn more about the contest and its connection to our mission here. Fiction Winner Selected by Cynthia Thayer Goodbye, Annette Ben Emory Rowing on the bay in the early mornings, I often greet the seals. “Hi, friend. Curious?” … Read more
A selection of poems from FBC’s inaugural creative writing contest, Stories from Here. Learn more about the contest and its connection to our mission here. Poetry Winner In defense of a small life Nina Barufaldi Where we lived was the end of the earth A terrific sea to the… Read more
Announcing the winners and honorable mentions of Stories from Here In 2026, Frenchman Bay Conservancy hosted our inaugural creative writing contest. We invited writers of all ages to share stories, poems, and essays inspired by the lands, waters, and communities of Downeast Maine. We received an inspiring range of submissions, each offering a unique perspective… Read more
This week, we had the chance to sit down with WABI to talk about the why behind Headwater Bluffs and the collaboration, care, and long-term commitment it takes to protect land at this scale. We’re especially grateful to Austin Schuver, our Director of Land Protection, whose steady leadership and deep knowledge carried this project from… Read more