Chilton Furniture Invites Community to Celebrate End of Summer with Evening Hours Event

Chilton Furniture - Freeport, ME

The Dune Upholstered Bed with a wool boucle headboard from Chilton Furniture, paired with the Shaker Heirloom Side Table

Chilton Furniture Logo

An evening of beverages, mingling and end-of-sale savings

Whether you’re shopping for new pieces or stopping by for a drink among neighbors, we look forward to a relaxed and enjoyable evening.”

— Jen Levin, President of Chilton

FREEPORT, ME, UNITED STATES, September 8, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- As Chilton Furniture’s Summer-End Sale nears its close, the company is hosting Evening Hours—a relaxed, in-store gathering to celebrate its local community and offer one last chance to shop the sale. The event takes place Thursday, September 18, 2025, with extended shopping hours from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Chilton’s Freeport, Maine location, 184 Lower Main Street.

Guests can enjoy seasonal drinks—both

Midcoast Federal Credit Union Opens New Location, Expands Service Area

Invites Public to Free Grand Opening Party July 23, 2016

 Freeport, ME, July 8, 2016 – Midcoast Federal Credit Union proudly announces the opening of its 5th branch and new corporate headquarters in Freeport, Maine. Now open for business, the Freeport building, located at 186 Lower Main St., houses the credit union’s newest branch, as well as central operations for the growing company.  The 8,400 sq. foot building stood vacant since it construction in 2006, making MCFCU a welcome new neighbor in the Freeport business community.

“We are thrilled to become part of the Freeport community. Many residents are pleased to see this beautiful building brought to life after a near decade of vacancy.  It not only signifies a major step forward for our Credit Union, but it is a sign of good economic times for the community and our entire field of membership.” Joe Gervais, President & CEO

Along with the new building, Midcoast FCU is excited to announce a southern expansion of their service area. Midcoast FCU has been approved to open their membership to people and businesses in the towns of Yarmouth, North Yarmouth, Cumberland, Pownal and Durham, in addition to the existing towns of Freeport, Brunswick, Harpswell, and all towns in Sagadahoc, Lincoln and Knox Counties.



While the Freeport branch has been fully operational since June 27, the community is invited to enjoy a family-friendly Grand Opening Celebration for the public on Saturday, July 23 from 9:00am – 2:00pm.



This free, fun party, hosted by the credit union with special guest WJBQ’s Lori Voornas, will feature lots of games, prizes, music and more. The event will offer giveaways from WJBQ, Midcoast FCU and neighboring businesses, and complimentary food from Frosty’s Donuts and Buck’s Naked BBQ. Members of the Freeport Area Chamber of Commerce will be present at 10:00am for a ceremonial ribbon cutting and thank you remarks from the Credit Union leadership.



There will be ongoing family entertainment, balloons, music, and more.  Scheduled events include:



            9:00am            Welcome from Lori Voornas, WJBQ-FM (onsite until 11:00am)

            10:00am          Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Freeport Chamber of Commerce

            11:00 -1:00      Complimentary barbecue lunch provided by Buck’s Naked BBQ



Founded in 1956, Midcoast Federal Credit Union is a $150 million dollar financial cooperative committed to empowering its over 15,800 members to financial success through education, technology and service excellence with offices located in Freeport, Brunswick, Bath, Edgecomb and Thomaston.  Learn more at www.midcoastfcu.me.

Tree Clearing to Begin Along I-295

Freeport, Maine - Crews will be clearing trees along I-295 for three weeks beginning with the mobilization of equipment tonight (Wednesday, April 29th).

All work will be between Exits 21 and 28 from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Sunday through Friday. This work will require the contractor, Drew Corp. of Lovell, ME., to close the travel lane within the work zone to safely clear trees and conduct the chipping operation on-site.

Motorists could experience slight delays.

"Feathers over Freeport" Offers Birding Fun for All Ages

AUGUSTA, Maine - The fourth annual "Feathers over Freeport" event will take place the last weekend in April. This unique event is designed to appeal to birdwatchers of all abilities, especially families and children.

"Feathers over Freeport" will highlight special birding opportunities at Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal, including the Hawk Watch at the summit, and Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park in Freeport, home to nesting ospreys.

Sponsored by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Bureau of Parks and Lands and the Freeport Wild Bird Supply, the two-day event will feature a wide variety of activities and presentations, including live-bird presentations, bird walks for adults and children, a hawk watch workshop and numerous children's activities.

Details of the event are:

Feathers over Freeport:

8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, April 26, Bradbury Mountain State Park, Pownal

8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, April 27, Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, Freeport

Park entry fees apply; all programs and activities included with park admission.

Two special programs will highlight the event, including a live bird presentation on birds of prey, scheduled for 1 p.m., Saturday, April 26, at Bradbury Mountain and a live birds presentation scheduled for 1 p.m., Sunday, April 27, at Wolfe's Neck. The programs, presented by Hope Douglas of Wind Over Wings, will feature a Golden Eagle on both days, as well as other live birds.

Programs this year include a Vernal Pool Exploration and Hawk Watch Workshop on Saturday, and new Springtime Plant Walk and Tracks & Signs of Maine Wildlife programs on Sunday. Bird-related activities geared toward children and families will be offered both days from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. where birding basics will be presented through games, crafts, and hands-on activities.

For more information about "Feathers over Freeport" and a complete listing of activities, go to: http://www.maine.gov/feathersoverfreeport

Or by calling the parks: Bradbury Mountain State Park at (207) 688-4712 or Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park at (207) 865-4465.

For more information about Maine state parks and historic sites, go to: http://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/index.shtml

Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park Offers Winter Programs

Freeport, Maine - Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, one of Maine's popular coastal state parks, is offering nature programs at 2 p.m. each Sunday through the winter.

Park visitors are invited to enjoy the park with their families and learn something new from the park's knowledgeable and dedicated staff.

Programs start at the circle of benches at the end of the second parking lot and may include walks, talks, and activities in a beautiful natural setting. The programs, which are based on the park's natural surroundings, will last about one hour, weather permitting.

No reservations needed except for group use, and the nature programs are free with park admission. Admission is $1 for ages 5-11; $3 for Maine residents ages 12-64; $4.50 for non-residents ages 12-64; $1.50 for non-residents 65 and older. Children under 5 and Maine residents 65 and older are free. For more information or to arrange for group visits, call 865-4465.

Dec. 2 -- Ready, Set, Sleep! - Discover how nature prepares for winter in this program for children and fun-loving adults. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot. One hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

Dec. 9 -- Mammals of Maine - Add to your knowledge and appreciation of the ways in which the park's mammals survive winter. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot. One hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

Dec. 16 -- Winter Birds at Wolfe's Neck - Discover the needs and adaptations of the park's birds and the ways in which people can help birds around their homes survive winter. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, One hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

Dec. 23 -- Winter in the Woods - Increase your understanding and appreciation of some of the ways in which plants and animals survive winter. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, One hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

Dec. 30 -- Plants alive in a Cold World - Learn the strategies of the park's plants for surviving winter. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Vote 2012: Freeport Official Election Results November 6th

FREEPORT Vote Totals - Nov 6, 2012

RACE CANDIDATE                   TOTAL

US President Johnson, Gary            48
US President Obama, Barack 3266
US President Romney, Mitt        1726
US President Stein, Jill                   46

US Senator Dalton, Danny                    42
US Senator Dill, Cynthia                  504
US Senator Dodge, Andrew            26
US Senator King, Angus                3179
US Senator Summers, Charles Jr. 1223
US Senator Woods, Stephen            87

Rep to Congress, Dist 1 Courtney, Jonathan 1604
Rep to Congress, Dist 1 Pingree, Chellie        3398

State Senator, Dist 10 Dean, Ralph        1911
State Senator, Dist 10 Gerzofsky, Stanley 2925

Rep to Legislature, Dist 106 Gideon, Sara 3260
Rep to Legislature, Dist 106 James, Jody 1668

Register of Probate O'Brien, John 3826

County Commissioner, Dist 3 Gorden, Stephen 1760
County Commissioner, Dist 3 Grover, Mark        2587

Referendum Questions:

Freeport and Brunswick Inaugural Train November 1st

Organizers Set Goal of 10,000 Lit Jack-o-Lanterns for ‘Gourd’ Time at Camp Sunshine Pumpkin Festival

L.L. Bean to host pumpkin-filled day of live music, children’s activities, costumes, contests and prizes – all to benefit children and families in need

Freeport, Maine - Organizers of the 10^th annual Camp Sunshine Pumpkin Festival have set a goal of displaying 10,000 illuminated jack-o-lanterns at the day-long, family-friendly charity event next weekend in Freeport, Maine.

Proceeds from the Saturday, Oct. 27 event, presented by Hancock Lumber and TD Bank, will benefit Camp Sunshine, a one-of-a-kind national retreat in Casco, Maine for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. The pumpkin festival is set for noon to 8 p.m. at L.L. Bean’s flagship store in downtown Freeport.

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park Offers Free Nature Programs

Augusta, Maine - Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park in Freeport is offering nature programs daily at 2 p.m. into the fall season.

The programs, which include walks, talks and activities in the beautiful, natural setting of the park, are free with park admission. Programs last about one hour, weather permitting, and are suitable for children and adults.

Most programs start at the circle of benches at the end of the park’s second parking lot, unless otherwise noted.

For more information or to arrange for group visits, visitors can call 865-4465 or go to: http://www.maine.gov/wolfesneckwoods

For more information about Maine state parks and historic sites, go to: http://www.parksandlands.com

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park Nature Programs, Oct. 2012

Saturday, Oct. 6, Fall in the Forest - Fall is a great time to get to know the forest, join us on this introduction to identifying trees and their changing foliage. 2 PM, meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Sunday, Oct. 7, Wabanaki Nature Legends - Enjoy this short walk on the accessible path with stories based on legends from the native Wabanaki tribes of Maine. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Monday, Oct. 8, Stories in Stone – Learn the story of Maine’s rockbound coast on this walk with short talks and activities. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Saturday, Oct. 13, Steamer Dig – Learn about the life and times of the soft-shell clam. Then try your hand at digging this delicacy of the deep mud with an experienced guide. (Bring mud sneakers or high boots, gloves, and a clam hoe or spading fork.) 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Sunday, Oct. 14, Ready, Set, Sleep! - Discover how nature prepares for winter in this program for children and fun-loving adults. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Saturday, Oct. 20, Fall Foliage Tour - Stroll through the forest on our accessible path to enjoy the beauty and learn about the changes happening around you. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Sunday, Oct. 21, Who Lived Here Before Us? - Join us on this historical tour of the park and peninsula. We will learn about the land use of the park over time, and why its past makes it such a special place today. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Saturday, Oct. 27, Wabanaki Nature Legends - Enjoy this short walk on the accessible path with stories based on legends from the native Wabanaki tribes of Maine. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Sunday, Oct. 28, Fall in the Forest - Fall is a great time to get to know the trees, join us on this introduction to tree identification in the fall. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, 1 hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

I-295 Overnight Paving Between Freeport and Brunswick

Freeport, Maine - Overnight paving work on I-295 from Freeport to Brunswick begins Sunday evening, August 19th.

Crews will pave I-295 beginning at the Cousis River in Freeport heading north to Exit 28 in Brunswick as well as the same area southbound. This work will be done primarily near Exits 22, 24 and 28 and will require single lane traffic through the work zones.

The Exit 22 off-ramp and Exit 24 on-ramp will be closed from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.

It is anticipated that this work, being performed by Pike Industries, will be completed in the overnight hours on Wednesday, August 22nd.

Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands: Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park Offers Free, Daily Nature Programs

Augusta, Maine - Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park in Freeport is offering nature programs daily at 2 p.m. through Labor Day.

The programs, which include walks, talks and activities in the beautiful, natural setting of the park, are free with park admission. No reservations are needed, except for large groups. Programs last about one hour, weather permitting, and are suitable for children and adults.

Most programs start at the circle of benches at the end of the park’s second parking lot, unless otherwise noted.

For more information or to arrange for group visits, visitors can call 865-4465 or go to: http://www.maine.gov/wolfesneckwoods

For more information about Maine state parks and historic sites, go to: http://www.parksandlands.com

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park Nature Programs for August

Wednesday, Aug. 1, The Edge of the Sea - Enjoy a walk, short talks, and activities on the natural history and ecology of our varied shore. 2 p.m., Wheelchair accessible. One hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Thursday, Aug. 2, Wild Relatives – Everyone has them!  Get acquainted with the wild relatives of things in and around your home on this tour. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot. 1 hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Friday, Aug. 3, Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Saturday, Aug. 4, In the Pines - Tour the pine forest on our accessible path and see why Maine is the Pine Tree State. 2 p.m., one-hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

Sunday, Aug. 5, Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Monday, Aug. 6, Tree Hunt – Stop by the benches to get your papers for this fun, self-guiding hunt, and then come back afterwards to see how well you did. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Tuesday, Aug. 7, Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Wednesday, Aug. 8, The Shore Tour - Learn about our varied shores through talks, activities, and views along the accessible path. Wheelchair accessible. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Thursday, Aug. 9, Small Wonders – Discover the extraordinary things that are right before your eyes.  (Hand lenses provided.) 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Friday, Aug. 10, Hike with the Ranger – Enjoy the best that the park has to offer in this season with a knowledgeable guide. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Saturday, Aug. 11, Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Sunday, Aug. 12, Steamer Dig – Learn about the life and times of the soft-shell clam. Then try your hand at digging this delicacy of the deep mud with an experienced guide. (Bring mud sneakers or high boots, gloves, and clam hoe or spading fork.) 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Monday, Aug. 13, Casco Bay Walk – Enjoy views of rocky shores, nesting ospreys, and islands in the bay on this one-mile hike. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot. one hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Tuesday, Aug. 14, Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Wednesday, Aug. 15, Stroll with the Ranger – Take a relaxed tour with the ranger on our wheelchair-accessible path. 2 p.m. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Thursday, Aug. 16, Drawing From Nature – Use drawing and art as a way to get up close and personal with the wildlife in the park. Drawing materials will be provided, visitors are invited to bring their own if they prefer. 2 p.m., meet at the benches by the second parking lot. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Friday, Aug. 17, Stories in Stone – Get to know the story of Maine’s rockbound coast on this walk with talks and activities. 2 p.m., meet at the circle of benches by the second parking lot, one hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

Saturday, Aug. 18, Wild Relatives –  Everyone has them!  Get acquainted with the wild relatives of things in and around your home on this tour. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot. one hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Sunday, Aug. 19, Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Monday, Aug. 20, Tree Hunt – Stop by the benches to get your papers for this fun, self-guiding hunt, and then come back afterwards to see how well you did. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour program, weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Tuesday, Aug. 21, Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Wednesday, Aug. 22, Hike with the Ranger – Enjoy the best that the park has to offer in this season with a knowledgeable guide. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Thursday, Aug. 23, Who Lived Here Before Us? – Learn about the history of a very special part of the Maine coast, and discover where we can still see signs of the past today. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Friday, Aug. 24, Small Wonders – Discover the extraordinary things that are right before your eyes.  (Hand lenses provided.) 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Saturday, Aug. 25, Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Sunday, Aug. 26, Tide Pools - Visit this informal program on the rocky shore near Googins Island to discover the secrets of a tide pool. Stop by the shore anytime from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

Monday, Aug. 27, Secrets of the Shore – Discover the secrets of life in the salt marsh, mud flat, and rocky shore in this one hour tour. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot. one hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Tuesday, Aug. 28, Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Wednesday, Aug. 29, Casco Bay Walk - Enjoy views of rocky shores, nesting ospreys, and islands in the bay on this one-mile hike. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot. one hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Thursday, Aug. 30, Forest and Shore Tour – Get to know the things that live in the park's forest and on its shores on this eye-opening tour. 2 p.m., meet at circle of benches by second parking lot, one hour, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Friday, Aug. 31, Drawing From Nature - Use drawing and art as a way to get up close and personal with the wildlife in the park. Drawing materials will be provided, visitors are invited to bring their own if they prefer. 2 p.m., meet at the benches by the second parking lot. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands: Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park Offers Free, Daily Nature Programs

Augusta, Maine - Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park in Freeport is offering nature programs daily at 2 p.m. through Labor Day.

The programs, which include walks, talks and activities in the beautiful, natural setting of the park, are free with park admission, and no reservations are needed, except for groups. Most of the programs, which are suitable for children and adults, will last about one hour, weather permitting.

Most programs start at the circle of benches at the end of the park’s second parking lot, unless otherwise noted

For more information or to arrange for group visits, visitors can call 865-4465 or go to: http://www.maine.gov/wolfesneckwoods

For more information about Maine state parks and historic sites, go to: http://www.parksandlands.com

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park Nature Programs

Thursday, June 21, Osprey Watch – Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Friday, June 22, Hike with the Ranger – Enjoy the best that the park has to offer in this season with a knowledgeable guide. Meet at 2 p.m. at the circle of benches by second parking lot, one-hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Saturday, June 23, Osprey Watch – Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Sunday, June 24, Tree Hunt -- Stop by the benches to get your papers for this fun, self-guided hunt and then come back afterwards to see how well you did. Meet at 2 p.m. at the circle of benches by second parking lot, one-hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Monday, June 25, Welcome Tour - Get to know the things that live in the park's forest and on its shores on this eye-opening tour. Meet at 2 p.m. at the circle of benches by second parking lot, one-hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Tuesday, June 26, Osprey Watch – Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Wednesday, June 27, Wild Relatives - Everyone has them!  Get acquainted with the wild relatives of things in and around your home on this tour. Meet at 2 p.m. at the circle of benches by second parking lot, one-hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Thursday, June 28, Osprey Watch – Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2-3 p.m., weather permitting. Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Friday, June 29, Treetops to Tide Pools -- Participate in sensory activities that introduce the park to children and fun-loving adults. 2 p.m. Wheelchair accessible. One-hour program, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465

Saturday, June 30, Steamer Dig - Learn about the life and times of the soft-shell clam. Then try your hand at digging this delicacy of the deep mud with an experienced guide. Bring mud sneakers or high boots, gloves, and clam hoe or spading fork. Meet at 2 p.m. at the circle of benches by second parking lot, one-hour, weather permitting. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park Offers May Nature Programs

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park Offers May Nature Programs


Augusta, Maine - Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park in Freeport is offering nature programs at 2 p.m. on weekends and holidays through May 28, weather permitting.

Starting at the benches at the end of the second parking lot at the park, these one-hour-long guided programs may include walks, talks, and activities in a beautiful natural setting.

No reservations are needed except for group use, and the programs are free with park admission.

Admission is $1 for ages 5-11, $3.00 for Maine residents ages 12-64; $4.50 for non residents ages 12 – 64; $1.50 for non residents 65 and older; people under age five and Maine residents 65 and older are free.

For more information or to arrange for group visits, please call 865-4465.

For more information about Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, go to: http://www.maine.gov/wolfesneckwoods

For more information about Maine state parks and historic sites, go to: http://www.parksandlands.com

 Calendar Entries for May 12-28
May 2012

5/12 -- Wild Flower Walk – Come for a walk in the woods to enjoy the spring wild flowers of Wolfe’s Neck Woods with a knowledgeable guide. 2 p.m. at benches by second parking lot, one hour, weather permitting.  Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

5/13 -- Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2 to 3 p.m., weather permitting.  Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport.  865-4465.

5/19 -- Hike with the Ranger - Enjoy the best that the park has to offer in this season with a knowledgeable guide.  2 p.m. at benches by second parking lot, one hour, weather permitting.  Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport.  865-4465.

5/20 -- Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2 to 3 p.m., weather permitting.  Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission.  Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport.  865-4465.

5/26 -- Osprey Watch - Stop by the osprey sign opposite Googins Island to get a close look at the nesting ospreys any time from 2 to 3 p.m., weather permitting.  Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport.  865-4465.

5/27 -- Stroll with the Ranger – Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the accessible White Pines Trail with a knowledgeable guide. 2 p.m., weather permitting.  Wheelchair accessible. Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport. 865-4465.

5/28 -- Wild Flower Walk – Come for a walk in the woods to enjoy the spring wild flowers of Wolfe’s Neck Woods with a knowledgeable guide. 2 p.m. at benches by second parking lot, one hour, weather permitting.  Free with park admission. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport.  865-4465.

Joint Study Shows Adequate Water Supply in Freeport; Creates New Water Study Model

Joint Study Shows Adequate Water Supply in Freeport; Creates New Water Study Model


Augusta, Maine - A recently completed joint study between the Maine Geological Survey and the U.S. Geological Survey not only shows that the Freeport watershed has an adequate water supply for local use, but it also has resulted in a new, three-dimensional computer model that will help future water studies, according to state officials.

The two-year Freeport study, published in 2012, is the most exacting analysis of water withdrawal from this watershed done to date, and the study approach already is being applied to another site, said Dr. Robert Marvinney, Maine state geologist and project manager.

“This is the most rigorous analysis of the impact of water withdrawals in this watershed, and it now provides watershed managers with a robust tool to consider future water-use scenarios under varying climatic conditions,” Marvinney said. “This effort married the respective strengths of the Maine Geological Survey (MGS) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in a well-coordinated and useful study.”

The newly developed computer model is “a detailed model of the aquifer system that explicitly shows how the groundwater system and streams interact in the study area,” said Martha Nielsen, USGS hydrologist and study author. “The purpose was to understand how climate and aquifer management affect overall water availability and changes in stream flow.”

The extensive study was directed by the Water Resources Planning Committee, a statewide advisory group composed of water professionals, such as water district officials, state and federal officials, commercial water users, environmental groups and geologists. Marvinney, the committee’s chairman, said the group meets several times a year to discuss water issues in Maine and to recommend where state agencies should focus resources and research.

A watershed is defined as a geographic area in which all precipitation flows to a common point such as a river or lake. In 2006, MGS did a study of smaller watersheds in Maine that had the potential for “too much water use for what was available,” Marvinney said. Out of 973 watersheds examined – each about 35 square miles in size – about a dozen sites, including Freeport, were shown to have relatively high water use compared to supply.

That earlier study “was used as a guidance tool for where we should focus additional work,” the state geologist said.

The Freeport watershed was chosen collectively for the detailed study, begun in 2009, because it is a relatively small watershed, at 19 square miles, with a use of 100 million gallons a year; it has a major water user, the Freeport Water District utility; and there is a well-defined aquifer, or underground water source, Marvinney said.

For Freeport, “the overall goal was to look at how ground water and surface water [flowing streams, ponds and rivers] are tied together and how withdrawals from ground water would affect surface-water flows,” the state geologist explained. Environmental water need for aquatic habitats also was taken into consideration along with human use, he said.

In building the computer model, the purpose was to look at different climate and demographic risks and pumping scenarios, he continued. “What happens if there’s a drought? What happens if the population grows? So managers can begin to use the model as a planning tool,” Marvinney said.

As part of the project, Dan Locke, MGS hydrogeologist and study author, made numerous stream-flow measurements during 2009 and 2010 at five sites along Harvey and Merrill brooks in the Freeport-Pownal area. The measurements were made under different flow conditions and through the changing seasons. He also compiled information on groundwater levels and oversaw the drilling of two new observational wells. In addition, the Freeport aquifer also was studied in detail to understand its dimensions and thickness of sand, gravel, mud and clay layers, Marvinney noted.

Compiling data into the computer model resulted in “the most detailed analysis we’ve done on a small watershed in Maine,” Nielsen said. As a result, “what we have now is a tool that can help water resources managers look at future impacts on water resources, as in drought conditions and population increases. It gives us a framework that we can use for other watersheds.”

For Freeport, the computer model indicates there is an adequate water supply to meet direct demand, both human and environmental, the state geologist said. “With current usage, there is not an issue of annual supply,” he said.

The same modeling approach now is being used in an investigation of the Branch Brook watershed in York County where data collection is under way, Marvinney said.

The state geologist pointed out that the USGS is initiating a water census for the entire nation, and the analytical approach, designed for small watersheds, “undoubtedly” could be used in the Northeast and the type of geology found there.

“Our work can be part of this national effort,” Marvinney said.

To view the Freeport report, go to: http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2011/5227

For a summary of the study, go to: http://www.maine.gov/doc/nrimc/mgs/explore/water/sites/may10.htm

For more information about the Maine Geological Survey, go to: http://www.maine.gov/doc/nrimc/mgs/explore/water/sites/may10.htm

Photos are courtesy of the Maine Geological Survey.