Towns and Land Trusts that Participate in The Maine Vernal Pool Special Area Management Plan
Town of Orono
Why did the town of Orono participate in the Maine Vernal Pool Special Area Management Plan (SAMP)?
“At the core of the Town’s comprehensive plan for growth is encouraging walkable neighborhood and economic development close to in-town services while conserving large areas of open space in the rural area of town. At times natural resource restrictions in the in-town or “growth” area forces the opposite: in-town development is blocked and the development migrates to outlying areas where development is easier. The SAMP offers a modified version of “transfer of development rights” – a version that can help the Town promote in-town development and conservation of vernal pools and related rural lands at a landscape level.”
Town of Topsham
Why did the town of Topsham participate in the Maine Vernal Pool Special Area Management Plan (SAMP)?
“Topsham has long planned for the protection of its rural character and natural areas with the recognition that a well-planned healthy downtown core is an essential ingredient in protecting these rural values.
We recognized that while we desired more infill development with future downtown neighborhoods that are walkable, safe, and vibrant…as well as our rural and natural areas protected…we saw an opportunity to provide for both in a more planned and intentional manner.“
Orono Land Trust
Why did the town of Orono Land Trust participate in the Maine Vernal Pool Special Area Management Plan (SAMP)?
“Wetland conservation is an integral part of Orono Land Trust’s mission and Vernal Pool protection is part of that effort. Several Board members, led by David and Pat Thompson, attended state and local informational meetings about Vernal Pools and encouraged Land Trust volunteers to participate in Orono’s Vernal Pool inventory. In turn, state, university, and town members provided the Land Trust with information about the SAMP program and the Trust’s Board, given their keen interest in Vernal Pools, enthusiastically agreed to work with the Town on a pilot program.”
Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust
Why did the town of Orono Land Trust participate in the Maine Vernal Pool Special Area Management Plan (SAMP)?
“Wetland conservation is an integral part of Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust’s mission and vernal pool protection is part of that effort. BTLT Board members and staff attended state and local informational meetings about vernal pools and encouraged Land Trust volunteers to participate in Brunswick and Topsham’s vernal pool inventories. In turn, state, university, and town members provided the Land Trust with information about the SAMP program and the Trust’s Board agreed to work with the Town of Topsham on a pilot program.”