Waldoboro cabin offers summer getaway to support conservation

Waldoboro, Maine - Plan now to get away this summer to a remote shorefront cabin on a wildlife sanctuary, and support a charity in the process.  Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA) is now taking reservations for mid-May through September stays at its cabin on the Osborn Finch Wildlife Sanctuary on Dutch Neck in Waldoboro, just a short drive from most points in Maine.

The Wildlife Sanctuary includes 2 acres of grassy field, 9 acres of forest, and 300 feet of tidal frontage on the shore of the Muscongus River.  A stone’s throw from the cabin is a pocket beach.  At low tide, clam flats are revealed, and, downriver from the preserve, a colony of harbor seals makes their summer home. Numerous birds, such as black-back and herring gulls, bald eagles, kingfishers, terns and great blue heron, may be seen flying overhead or fishing along the riverbank.  The large windows of the cabin provide panoramic views up and down the Medomak River.  Jean Twomey, a South Portland resident who has stayed at the Osborn Finch Cabin, said, “We had no idea how wonderful it would be until we made our way through the woods that first time to find the cozy cabin right on the water's edge. We brought kayaks and enjoyed the luxury of tying up our boats on the rocks out in front, exploring the neighboring islands and coves, occasionally stopping to picnic or take a swim. We brought plenty of good food, books and an eye for starlit nights, easygoing mornings, the sights and sounds of lobster boats, ospreys and an amazing variety of other shore birds. We felt so lucky knowing that someone left this beautiful place so that we can all have a chance to feel like Thoreau by the sea.”

It is a rustic getaway whose charm is most enjoyed by those who love the quiet solitude of nature and do not mind being without common creature comforts for a few days, as it has no electricity or running water.  Despite Spartan amenities, it is a comfortable and relaxing getaway, with a well-kept indoor composting toilet, simple yet charming furnishings, and serene surroundings.  

Although the cabin is available only on a summer reservation basis, the Osborn Finch Wildlife Sanctuary trails are open to the public year-round.  The cabin is reserved on a donation basis.  Proceeds from use of the cabin support PWA’s land and waters stewardship programs.  To reach the preserve from Rte. 1 Waldoboro, turn onto Rte. 32 South, go 2.7 miles and turn east onto Dutch Neck Road.  To reach the preserve from Damariscotta, travel the Biscay Road to Rt. 32 north in Bremen and drive 6.3 miles, turning right onto Dutch Neck Road.  Once on Dutch Neck Road, go left at the fork and then travel 2.5 miles.  The preserve’s sign and grass parking area are on the left.  The cabin is about a 1/5-mile walk over a preserve trail from the parking area.

PWA is a volunteer-based, membership-supported non-profit organization with a mission to conserve the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula through land and water stewardship and education. FMI, call 207-563-2196 or visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.

The Beauty of Wood Exhibit

Bruce Babb’s marquetry creations range
from wall art to chess boards to heirloom quality tables.

Damariscotta, Maine –  Bruce Babb will showcase his collection of marquetry works in an exhibit, The Beauty of Wood, at the Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA) office gallery in downtown Damariscotta now through February.  The Association invites the public to a reception for Babb from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, January 16.

Marquetry is the fine art of veneering.  It involves the careful and intricate placement of small pieces of veneers to form patterns. The woods are from all over the globe and yield an astonishing array of grains, textures, and colors, from rich ebony and blood reds to delicate pinks and creamy yellows.  “Thirty years ago I ordered a package of veneer samples from a wood working catalog. When they arrived, I started playing with them and found myself fascinated by the variety of colors and grains that are available.  I was hooked.” Babb said.

Babb began his exploration into marquetry by translating antique quilt patterns into veneer designs.  This led to the creation of his own unique designs, many of which are fanciful interpretations of nature. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, and each is laboriously hand cut, assembled and finished in his Pemaquid, Maine, studio.  The works are finished with at least six coats of varnish and hand-rubbed to a beautiful, deep and lustrous shine.  In addition to art pieces, Babb also makes chess boards, backgammon boards, dominoes, and jewelry boxes, and he collaborates with cabinet makers to produce tables of heirloom quality.

To view the exhibit, visit the Association’s office from 9:30-4:30 weekdays, located at 15 Courtyard Street, above Salt Bay Café in downtown Damariscotta.  PWA is a volunteer-based, membership-supported non-profit organization.  For more information, call 207-563-2196 or visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.  Babb will donate 35% of sales to support the PWA mission of conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula

“LUCID NATURE” ART EXHIBIT AT PWA

“Returning Freedom” and other creations by Crystal McLain
will be on display at the Pemaquid Watershed
Association office gallery beginning on April 21.

Damariscotta, Maine  −  Crystal McLain of Bristol will exhibit her artistic creations at the Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA) office gallery in downtown Damariscotta from April 21 through May 30.  The theme of her exhibit is “Lucid Nature by The Fortuitous Canvas”.  The public is invited to a wine-and-cheese opening reception for McLain on Friday, April 25, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at PWA.

McLain takes a limitless approach when it comes to expressing her creativity.  She creates using whatever medium is inspired in the moment, whether pencil, watercolors, acrylics, tempera batiks, sculpture, or collage. She believes being thoughtful about one’s process in almost anything can result in something artistic.  She named her business The Fortuitous Canvas to reflect her awe when a creation comes out well.

The exhibit may be viewed weekdays from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m. by visiting PWA above Salt Bay Café.  For more information, call 207-563-2196 or visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.  McLain is donating 35% of proceeds from sales to support PWA’s mission of conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula.

Waldoboro cabin offers summer getaway to support conservation

Waldoboro, Maine - Plan now to get away this summer to a remote shorefront cabin on a wildlife sanctuary, and support a charity in the process.  Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA) is now taking reservations for mid-May through September stays at its cabin on the Osborn Finch Wildlife Sanctuary on Dutch Neck in Waldoboro, just a short drive from most points in Maine.

The Wildlife Sanctuary includes 2 acres of grassy field, 9 acres of forest, and 300 feet of tidal frontage on the shore of the Muscongus River.  A stone’s throw from the cabin is a pocket beach.  At low tide, clam flats are revealed, and, downriver from the preserve, a colony of harbor seals makes their summer home. Numerous birds, such as black-back and herring gulls, bald eagles, kingfishers, terns and great blue heron, may be seen flying overhead or fishing along the riverbank.  The large windows of the cabin provide panoramic views up and down the Medomak River.  Jean Twomey, a South Portland resident, has stayed at the Osborn Finch Cabin the past few summers. “We had no idea how wonderful it would be until we made our way through the woods that first time to find the cozy cabin right on the water's edge. We brought kayaks and enjoyed the luxury of tying up our boats on the rocks out in front, exploring the neighboring islands and coves, occasionally stopping to picnic or take a swim. We brought plenty of good food, books and an eye for starlit nights, easygoing mornings, the sights and sounds of lobster boats, ospreys and an amazing variety of other shore birds. We felt so lucky knowing that someone left this beautiful place so that we can all have a chance to feel like Thoreau by the sea.”

It is a rustic getaway whose charm is most enjoyed by those who love the quiet solitude of nature and do not mind being without common creature comforts for a few days, as it has no electricity or running water.  Despite Spartan amenities, it is a comfortable and relaxing getaway, with a well-kept indoor composting toilet, simple yet charming furnishings, and serene surroundings.  

Although the cabin is available only on a summer reservation basis, the Osborn Finch Wildlife Sanctuary trails are open to the public year-round.  The cabin is reserved on a donation basis.  Proceeds from use of the cabin support PWA’s land and waters stewardship programs.  To reach the preserve from Rte. 1 Waldoboro, turn onto Rte. 32 South, go 2.7 miles and turn east onto Dutch Neck Road.  To reach the preserve from Damariscotta, travel the Biscay Road to Rt. 32 north in Bremen and drive 6.3 miles, turning right onto Dutch Neck Road.  Once on Dutch Neck Road, go left at the fork and then travel 2.5 miles.  The preserve’s sign and grass parking area are on the left.  The cabin is about a 1/5-mile walk over a preserve trail from the parking area.

PWA is a volunteer-based, membership-supported non-profit organization with a mission to conserve the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula through land and water stewardship and education. FMI, call 207-563-2196 or visit http://www.pemaquidwatershed.org/cabin.html

“MONHEGAN AND BEYOND” ART EXHIBIT AT PWA

Damariscotta, Maine  − Come see the sights of “Monhegan and Beyond” at the Pemaquid Watershed
Association (PWA) office gallery in downtown Damariscotta from October 28 to January 3.  This exhibit features works by Virginia Forrest of Wiscasset.  The public is invited to a wine-and-cheese opening reception for Forrest on Friday, November 1, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at PWA.

Forrest taught at the Wiscasset Primary School for 26 years before diving more fully into the world of art.  After her teaching career, she managed the Maine Art Gallery in Wiscasset for 7 years, and she has served as a Trustee at the Boothbay Region Art Foundation.  Forrest captures island, village, harbor and other coastal scenes with watercolors and oils.   From a barn in winter to a blooming garden in summer, from old Maine capes to fishing piers, Forrest’s paintings illuminate the tranquility of New England scenery and lifestyles.  Exhibit visitors will recognize the special corners of Maine in Forrest’s paintings, from Boothbay Harbor, Mt. Katadin, and Monhegan Island, to New Harbor and Pemaquid Point.

The exhibit may be viewed weekdays from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m. by visiting PWA above Salt Bay Café.  For more information, call 207-563-2196 or visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.  Forrest is donating 35% of proceeds from sales to support PWA’s mission of conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula.

CIRCUMNAVIGATE DAMARISCOVE ISLAND WITH PWA

New Harbor, Maine - Enjoy what is sure to be an unforgettable Maine Coast experience on the Pemaquid Watershed Association’s Eighth Annual Sunset Cruise for a Cause with Hardy Boat Cruises on Sunday, September 8.  The two-hour cruise will begin at 5:00 p.m., departing from Shaw’s Wharf in New Harbor.  The boat will head towards Pemaquid Point, passing Pemaquid Point lighthouse on way to circumnavigation of historic Damariscove Island located in the Gulf of Maine and will pass close to Ram Island lighthouse and nearby Fisherman's Island.  Cuckolds Lighthouse, located off of Southport Island, will be visible on this trip.  Other islands on the route include Squirrel Island, Outer Heron and White Islands.  Spectacular views of coastal homes, lighthouses, and wildlife abound, and guests are encouraged to bring binoculars. The route may be modified at the discretion of the Captain.  In the event that the Captain determines that the cruise cannot happen, it will be rescheduled.

Damariscove Island is a 210-acre nature preserve, located roughly 5 miles out of Boothbay Harbor.  The island is owned and managed by Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT). As a special treat for passengers this year, Nick Ullo and Tracey Hall, Executive Director and Environmental Educator, respectively, at BRLT will be on board to share some stories and answer questions about the island.  Ullo and Hall spent 7 years in the role of caretakers of Damariscove Island before joining BRLT staff.

This event is sponsored by H. M. Payson & Co.  Complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be provided courtesy of King Eider’s Pub, and there will be a cash bar.  Tickets are $35 each and are available weekdays at the PWA office at 15 Courtyard Street in Damariscotta (side entrance by Salt Bay Café) or by phone at 207-563-2196.  Tickets are non-refundable. Last year’s Cruise for a Cause completely sold out, so eager participants are encouraged to reserve tickets now.

Proceeds from the event will help fund PWA in its mission to conserve the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula through land and water stewardship and education.  FMI on PWA, visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.

BERGEY ART EXHIBIT AT PWA

Damariscotta, Maine - Peggy Bergey will be showing her paintings at the Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA) office suite in downtown Damariscotta from April 1 to May 10 in an exhibit entitled, “Personal View.”  The public is invited to a wine-and-cheese opening reception for Bergey on Friday, April 5, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at PWA.

Bergey was born and raised in Pennsylvania and came to Maine in 1977.  She, like so many, did not begin painting until retiring from teaching.  She first took a course from local artist Debra Arter, called Watercolors for the Timid, and the rest is history.  She paints primarily in watercolors, capturing her view in a flowing realism.  Every one of her paintings on display at PWA are of things she has seen and fallen in love with in Maine, from yellow lilies to beach roses, to an old mill and a blue barn.  Her pricing is modest, ranging from $75 to $150.

The exhibit may be viewed weekdays from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m. by visiting PWA above Salt Bay Café in downtown Damariscotta.  For more information, call 207-563-2196 or visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.  Bergey is donating 35% of proceeds from sales to support PWA’s mission of conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula.

MOODEY ART EXHIBIT AT PWA

Damariscotta, Maine - Penelope Moodey will be exhibiting her paintings at the Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA) office suite in downtown Damariscotta from December 3 to January 11.  The exhibit entitled, “Surrounding Energy,” brings together a series of paintings on the subject of energy.  The public is invited to a wine-and-cheese opening reception for Moodey on Friday, December 7, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at PWA.

FURMAN ARTWORK FEATURED AT PEMAQUID WATERSHED ASSOCIATION

Damariscotta, Maine - Stop in at the Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA) office suite in downtown Damariscotta to view a beautiful collection of works in oils, graphite, and pastels by Marcia Brandwein Furman.  Her exhibit, “Reflections of Nature,” runs through November 27.  Furman is donating 35% of proceeds from sales to support PWA’s mission of conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula.

Furman’s oil paintings show her strength at translating light and dark, capturing nature’s moodiness with deep shadows.  Her graphite drawings are extremely detailed with values of contrast and texture that draw the eye into every crevice.  The pastel collection allows her to use her drawing talent and introduce color to her view of trees, flowers, and those fabulous dark, shadowy forms.

The exhibit may be viewed weekdays from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m. by visiting PWA above Salt Bay Café in downtown Damariscotta.  For more information, call 207-563-2196 or visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.

FURMAN ART EXHIBIT AT PWA

Damariscotta, Maine - Marcia Brandwein Furman will be exhibiting her paintings at the Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA) office suite in downtown Damariscotta from October 1 to November 27.  The exhibit entitled, “Reflections of Nature,” features works in oils, graphite, and pastels.  The public is invited to a wine-and-cheese opening reception for Furman on Friday, October 5, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at PWA.

Furman lives in Pemaquid Harbor and White Plains, NY.  She graduated from Pratt Institute in NY as an illustrator but eventually found her love in textiles.  She has traveled worldwide extensively to print and weave her fabrics.  While in Maine, she relishes her involvement with local weekly plein air groups.  Her oil paintings show her strength at translating light and dark, capturing nature’s moodiness with deep shadows.  Her graphite drawings are extremely detailed with values of contrast and texture that draw the eye into every crevice. The pastel collection allows her to use her drawing talent and introduce color to her view of trees, flowers, and those fabulous dark, shadowy forms.

The exhibit may be viewed weekdays from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m. by visiting PWA above Salt Bay Café in downtown Damariscotta.  For more information, call 207-563-2196 or visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.  Furman is donating 35% of proceeds from sales to support PWA’s mission of conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula.

PWA in October

Midcoast, Maine - Oct. 1-Nov. 27:  Marcia Brandwein Furman Art Exhibit “Reflections of Nature” at PWA's office, 15 Courtyard St. above Salt Bay Café and the Chamber of Commerce in Damariscotta weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Marcia is donating 35% from exhibit sales to support PWA's mission.

Tues., Oct. 2, 6:00-7:00 p.m.: Susan Gallo presents “Loons and Real Estate: It’s All About Location, Location, Location” at the Friends’ Meeting House in Damariscotta. Why do loons choose to nest on one Maine lake and not another?  Why do some loons successfully raise chicks year after year while others seem to never give up the bachelor lifestyle?  Learn more about where loons are in Maine every summer, and how lakeside residents can participate in Maine Audubon's new study designed to answer some of the more intriguing loon "real estate" questions. Interested audience members can help Maine Audubon collect information about the features of loon lakes that might help (or hinder) loon nesting and success every summer.  Come to Gallo’s presentation to learn more about the loon habitat study and loon natural history in this multi-media presentation.

The Friends’ Meeting House is located on 77 Belvedere Road, off of Route 1, in Damariscotta. This presentation is free and open to the public.

Fri., Oct. 5, 4:30-5:30:  Marcia Brandwein Furman Exhibit Reception at the PWA office suite.  Enjoy wine and cheese while mingling and meeting the artist.

Sat., Oct. 13:  Doyle Preserve trail-marker-changeover crew led by Steve O’Bryan. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the parking area. The crew will update the trail system’s color coded trail markers.  Bring a hammer.  RSVP by Oct. 10 to trails@pemaquidwatershed.org.  Doyle Preserve is sponsored by The First.  DIRECTIONS: From Damariscotta, take the Biscay Road 2 miles and turn left onto Egypt Road (just before Pinkham’s Plantation, a landscaping business located on the right).  Travel 1.7 miles and turn right on to Castaway Cove Road. Preserve parking area is 0.1 miles down on the right.

Thurs., Oct. 18, 3:00-4:30: Invasive Plant Presentation at Bristol Area Library, for children in grades 1-5. Stop by the Bristol Library after school for a chance to learn about the threat of invasive aquatic plants to our ponds.  This presentation will include hands-on learning, fun games, and a fascinating lesson about how lake ecosystems function. Call 207-563-2196 or email pwalearn@pemaquidwatershed.org to sign up.

Saturday, Oct, 20, 8:00-9:30 a.m.:  Birding for Beginners at Crooked Farm Preserve, with an optional extension from 9:45-10:15 at Pemaquid Point. Randy Domina will lead an interactive walk suited for both beginning and experienced birders. Crooked Farm Preserve features an ideal mix of habitats -- from open fields to deciduously forested riverbanks -- that attracts many types of birds. This 1.5-hour walk will take place over varied terrain at a gentle pace with frequent stops to observe birds. The walk will conclude with an optional trip to Pemaquid Point from 9:45-10:15 to scout for seabirds.  To sign up for this walk, contact PWA at 207-563-2196 or email pwalearn@pemaquidwatershed.org.  Wearing orange is recommended as a general safety precaution in the fall.  Please bring binoculars and/or scopes.  PWA will bring a limited number of binoculars for participants to use.

Wed., Oct. 24:  PWA leads the Wednesday Walkers at Crooked Farm Preserve.  The public is invited to enjoy a hike with the Wednesday Walkers at Crooked Farm Preserve in Bristol.  Pemaquid Watershed Association’s (PWA) AmeriCorps Member, Amelia Fogg, will lead walkers along the 3-miles trail system traversing the 130-acre preserve of forest, wetlands, and open fields and 1.25 miles of Pemaquid River shorefront.  The walk will start at 9:30 a.m., and everyone is welcome.  The preserve is owned by PWA and is held in conservation easement by and co-managed with Damariscotta River Association.  Wearing orange is recommended as a general safety precaution in the fall.

     Due to limited parking at the preserve, walkers are asked to meet at the Friends’ Meeting House in Damariscotta at 9:00 a.m. to carpool to the site.  The Friends’ Meeting House is located at 77 Belvedere Road, just off Route 1.  For those coming from the Rockland area, a carpool will meet at Lowes in Thomaston at 8:30 a.m.  For those who opt not to carpool, they may meet the group at the preserve’s parking area at 9:30 a.m.  To reach the preserve from Damariscotta, take the Bristol Road (State Route 130) 9.9 miles and turn left on to Old County Road at the Bristol Library. Travel 0.8 miles and turn left into the preserve parking area (before the Carpenter’s Boatshop).  Extra parking is available at the Boatshop.

     Taking part in the Wednesday Walkers group is a great way to explore new trails and meet new people.  Walks are done throughout mid-coast Maine and are led by one of the nine partnering land trusts.  To sign-up to receive e-notices regarding future hikes, please email wednesday_walkers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

ANOTHER EVENT THAT MAY BE OF INTEREST:

Wed. Oct 10:  Women and Their Woods - Learning about Woodland Management
Hidden Valley Nature Center, Jefferson
Co-sponsored by Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, Maine Farmland Trust and Maine Forest Service

This is an all-day event designed to educate and encourage women on stewardship considerations and business aspects of woodland management and ownership.  The goal of the Women and Their Woods program is to increase the number of women woodland owners who are aware of the options for caring for their forestland.

The workshop will bring women woodland owners together. Each participant will:
1)        Learn how to increase familiarity and comfort with her woodland;
2)        Assess what she has and what she can do herself; know when and where to seek assistance from professionals; and

3)        Get in-depth answers and information from a variety of forest and legal professional experts who will be on hand.

Speakers include Barrie Brusila (Licensed Forester, Mid-Maine Forestry), tish carr  (Licensed Forester, Licensed Arborist), Patty Cormier  (Licensed Forester, Maine Forest Service), Mort Moesswilde (Licensed Forester, Maine Forest Service), Andy Shultz  (Licensed Forester, Maine Forest Service), Louanna Perkins (Staff Attorney, Maine Farmland Trust), Bambi Jones and David Moskovitz (Co-Founders Hidden Valley Nature Center).

Time will be spent both inside the classroom and outside touring the silvicultural practices at HVNC’s well-managed woodlot. The fee for the day is $50 including lunch and materials. MOFGA has some scholarships available (amarshall@mofga.org). For more information and to register go to www.hvnc.org or contact bambi@hvnc.org or 586-5837.

SPECIAL EXHIBIT OF JAKE DAY PRINTS

Dozens of prints of Maurice “Jake” Day’s imaginative artwork, including this one called “Mountain Climbing Bears,” are on display at Pemaquid Watershed Association through August 17.

HURRY IN TO VIEW SPECIAL EXHIBIT OF JAKE DAY PRINTS AT PWA

Damariscotta, ME − July 30, 2012 − Damariscotta-born Maurice “Jake” Day, famous in part for his illustrations for Walt Disney’s Bambi, used to tell his children and grandchildren "To walk slowly, stop often, and look." Now, to encourage the public to do just that, an exhibit of some of his famous and lesser known works is on display through August 17 at Pemaquid Watershed Association’s (PWA) office suite in downtown Damariscotta.

Maurice “Jake” Day was born in Damariscotta in 1892 and became an internationally renowned artist, sculptor, photographer, and naturalist. In particular, he is noted as “Maine’s Bambi Connection” for his illustration work for Walt Disney. Maurice’s grandson, Daniel Day, along with Daniel’s wife Sandi, have a pondside home within the Pemaquid River watershed and offered PWA the opportunity to present a special print collection of their grandfather’s artwork as a fundraiser in support of the PWA mission. “Pap,” as they lovingly refer to him, created witty imaginative art depicting a menagerie of mischievous wild critters – from chipmunks to gentle bears -- joyously cavorting deep in the forest. He painted wilderness, majestic meadow to mountain, and coastal scenes to delight. PWA is pleased to collaborate with Daniel and Sandi Day to share Jake Day’s art with the hope that people feel his spirit and the reverence he had for the Maine animals and scenes he so loved.

The exhibit may be viewed weekdays from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m. by visiting PWA, located above Salt Bay Café and the Damariscotta Region Chamber of Commerce. For more information and a map to PWA, visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org. The Day family is donating 35% of proceeds from sales to support PWA’s mission of conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula through land and water stewardship and education.

UNDERWATER MYSTERIES SCUBA WORKSHOP ON JULY 28‏

Bristol, Maine - Come find out what is under the sea off the coast of Pemaquid Beach at a Beachcombers’ Rest Nature Center workshop starting at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 28.  Underwater photographer and diver Brian Boone will describe the mysterious underwater world and talk about the sport of scuba diving. He will bring up some sea life for all to examine first hand. Participants are encouraged to bring their “wet shoes” and prepare for an exciting time. All ages are welcome, but children under 8 should be accompanied by an adult.  The workshop is free, but donations are welcome. Participants must pay the Town’s admission fee to Pemaquid Beach Park.  Pre-registration is required by calling PWA at 207-563-2196 before July 26.

Beachcombers’ Rest Nature Center is a collaboration between the Pemaquid Watershed Association and the Bristol Parks and Recreation Commission.  To reach the Center from Damariscotta, take the Bristol Road (State Rte 130) about 12 miles. Take the first right about 50 yards after the Fire Department (and just before Hanna's Store) onto Snowball Hill Road. Travel 9/10ths of a mile. At the bottom of the hill, on the left, there is a sign for the entrance to Pemaquid Beach Park.  This program will be cancelled if weather is inclement (as Pemaquid Beach Park closes on bad-weather days); call 677-2754 for information about the Park.  PWA is a volunteer-based, membership-supported non-profit organization that has been conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula since 1966. Visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org for the full calendar of Nature Center programs.

HANDS ON LOBSTER WORKSHOP ON JULY 20 AT PEMAQUID BEACH PARK

Bristol, Maine - The first workshop this season at Beachcombers’ Rest Nature Center will take place from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Friday, July 20, and will about “Lobster Senses”.  Dr Diane Cowan of The Lobster Conservancy will share fascinating information about lobsters, like the fact that lobsters can smell underwater and that they taste things with their feet.  This workshop, which is designed specifically for youngsters aged 8 to 13, will give participants a sense of lobster life through hands-on interactions with live lobsters. Students will learn how to hold a live lobster and to recognize key characteristics such as whether the lobster is right- or left-handed and male or female.  The workshop will explore how lobsters use their sense of smell, taste, vision, hearing and touch to relate to their underwater world.  Space is limited to 12 youth ages 8- to 13-years-old in order to allow each hands-on time with live lobsters.  Up to 12 adults are welcome to come and observe.  The workshop is free, but participants must pay the Town’s admission fee to the Park.  Space is limited, and pre-registration is required by today by contacting PWA at 207-563-2196 or emailing pwalearn@pemaquidwatershed.org.

Cowan is the Founder, Executive Director, and Senior Scientist at The Lobster Conservancy, which works to improve biological knowledge of the American lobster and apply it to fishery and environmental management. She has been an assistant professor at Bates College and has served the State of Maine's Department of Marine Resources as chief lobster biologist and leader of the Division of Biological Monitoring for the lobster, shrimp, herring, and urchin fisheries. Cowan earned her Ph.D. from the Boston University Marine Program and continued her studies as a Fellow at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in 1999 and 2005.

Beachcombers’ Rest Nature Center is a collaboration between the Bristol Parks and Recreation Commission and the Pemaquid Watershed Association, a volunteer-based, membership-supported non-profit organization that has been conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula since 1966. To reach the Center from Damariscotta, take the Bristol Road (State Rte 130) about 12 miles. Take the first right about 50 yards after the Fire Department (and just before Hanna's Store) onto Snowball Hill Road. Travel 9/10ths of a mile. At the bottom of the hill, on the left, there is a sign for the entrance to Pemaquid Beach Park. Workshop participants should gather in the community room on the right side of the Park pavilion building.  For more information on Beachcombers’ Rest Nature Center, visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.   This program will be cancelled if weather is inclement (as Pemaquid Beach Park closes on bad-weather days); call 677-2754 for information about the Park.

Have a bite to eat July 5 at Sully's Dogs and benefit PWA‏

On Thursday (July 5) Sully’s Dogs Food Cart is donating 10% of the day's proceeds to Pemaquid Watershed Association. 

The cart is open from 11-2 and is located at the corner of Main St and Pump St in Newcastle. 

Beyond natural casing hotdogs and ¼-lb all-beef hotdogs, Sully’s Dogs features bratwurst, kielbasa, and the plump and spicy, Georgia Red Hot. Toppings include not only ketchup but five types of mustard, Morse’s
sauerkraut, and freshly chopped onions.

In addition to donating a portion of the day’s income, there will be a donation bin at the cart for customers to make voluntary extra donations in support of PWA’s important work to conserve the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula. Stop by at Sully’s Dogs on July 5 and enjoy a lunch to benefit the local environment. 

==> Orders for pickup may be placed by phone that day by calling 380-9870.

LEARN TO COMPOST WITH WORM POWER

Bremen, Maine − Protecting the quality of the natural world can start in the kitchen. On Tuesday, June 26, Pemaquid Watershed Association (PWA) will host a worm bin open house and presentation by Jock Robie, an experienced vermiculture enthusiast.  From 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Bremen Town House, Robie will hold an open house for anyone who already has a worm bin and would like a private consultation on their bin or one-on-one help harvesting their castings.  Those interested can schedule a 40-minute appointment by calling PWA at 563-2196 or can drop in anytime.  From 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., Robie will give a presentation on Vermiculture 101, including advice on how to start a worm bin from scratch.  This presentation is free and open to the public. The first 20 participants to register will receive a free worm bin, worms not included. To register and reserve your bin, call PWA at 563-2196 or email pwalearn@pemaquidwatershed.org.

Worm bins make it easy to reduce an individual’s impact on the environment.  On average a single worm bin can prevent 70 pounds of food waste per year from entering a landfill by recycling it back into the earth. Vermicompost, worm castings, and worm tea (all products of vermiculture) can serve as high-quality organic fertilizer for plants, which increases growth rates, aids in pest control, and eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers. Worm bins also are especially useful during the winter months, when cold temperatures inhibit the functioning of outdoor compost piles. This presentation is a great way to learn from an expert how to start a worm bin and begin creating compost from kitchen scraps.

The Bremen Town House is located on Rte 32 in Bremen, between Biscay Road and Turner Road, adjacent to the Bremen Fire Station. The Pemaquid Watershed Association is a volunteer-based, membership-supported non-profit organization with a mission to conserve the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula through land and water stewardship and education. For more information, visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.

TICKETS ON SALE FOR THIRD ANNUAL PWA PUFFIN SUNSET CRUISE

See puffins and other seabirds first-hand on PWA’s Puffin Sunset Cruise on Saturday, June 30. Photo by Sherrie Tucker.

New Harbor, ME − June 8, 2012 − The Pemaquid Watershed Association invites the public to its Third Annual Puffin Sunset Cruise with Hardy Boat Cruises on Saturday, June 30. The two-hour cruise will begin at 6:45 p.m, departing from Shaw’s Wharf in New Harbor. The planned route includes sailing to Eastern Egg Rock, circling the island for great views of puffins, terns and other seabirds, and then passing by the Pemaquid Point lighthouse at sunset. Complimentary desserts will be served courtesy of Damariscotta River Grill, and there will be a cash bar. Tickets are $30 each and are available at the PWA office at 15 Courtyard Street in Damariscotta (side entrance by Salt Bay Café) or by phone at 207-563-2196. Proceeds from the event will help fund PWA’s mission to conserve the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula through land and water stewardship and education. FMI on PWA, visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.

 The mission of the Pemaquid Watershed Association is to conserve the natural
 resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula through land and water stewardship and
 education.

“LOCAL COLOR” ART EXHIBIT AT PWA

“LOCAL COLOR” ART EXHIBIT AT PWA


Damariscotta, Maine - “Local Color,” an exhibit by New Harbor artist, Peggy Farrell, will be on display at Pemaquid Watershed Association’s (PWA) office suite in Damariscotta from June 4 to July 13.  The public is invited to a wine-and-cheese opening reception for Farrell on Friday, June 15, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at PWA.

Farrell is living proof that childhood dreams can come true.  She has been drawn to artistic pursuits since her childhood years in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.  But, it was not until moving to the rocky shores of New Harbor in 2006 that she took out brush and paper and began to fulfill her dream of becoming an artist.  Watercolor has evolved as her favorite and most natural medium.  Her realistic and light-filled paintings reflect an appreciation for the landscape and its distinctive architecture, from coastal harbors and small villages to rolling farmlands and old barns.  Monhegan Island was a focus of her work this past year, and gardens and flowers also provide her great inspiration. When asked, “Why do you paint?”  Farrell responded, “When I am painting, I’m just quietly me and I cherish that time.”

The exhibit may be viewed weekdays from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m. by visiting PWA above Salt Bay Café in downtown Damariscotta.  For more information, call 207-563-2196 or visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org.  Farrell is donating 50% of proceeds from sales to support PWA’s mission of conserving the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula.

Red Sox Autographed Baseball at Charity Auction

Red Sox Autographed Baseball at Charity Auction


Damariscotta, Maine - On Friday, June 8, some lucky Red Sox fan will take home an autographed Red Sox baseball from the auction at Pemaquid Watershed Association’s annual fundraising event.  The baseball, signed by outfielder Darnell McDonald, was generously donated by the Boston Red Sox, and all proceeds from the sale will go to support land and water stewardship on the Pemaquid Peninsula.

Darnell McDonald has been an outfielder with the Boston Red Sox since 2010. He is renowned for hitting a home run on his first Red Sox at-bat, a feat only accomplished by nine other players in major league baseball history. Bids for the baseball will start with the online pre-auction bidding opportunity during the week leading up to the party and will culminate on the evening of the party.  Tickets to PWA’s Party on the Pier at The Contented Sole restaurant in Pemaquid Harbor, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on June 8, are $25 each and are available from the Maine Coast Book Shop in Damariscotta or by calling PWA at (207) 563-2196 or visiting their office above Salt Bay Café in Damariscotta during business hours.

Save the date to Party on the Pier in Pemaquid Harbor

Save the date to Party on the Pier in Pemaquid Harbor


Bristol, Maine - The public is invited to enjoy sunset over Pemaquid Harbor amid good company at Pemaquid Watershed Association’s (PWA) annual fundraising event, Party on the Pier.  The Party will be held for its eighth year on Friday, June 8, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Contented Sole restaurant in Pemaquid Harbor.  This year’s event will build upon the fun from previous years with a silent and live auction, “Harbor Putt” boat tours, as well as signature hors d’oeuvres, a generous dinner sampler, and delightful desserts courtesy of The Contented Sole restaurant.   A brand new feature this year will be live entertainment from “The Dam Jam,” a grassroots ensemble that plays traditional tunes drawn mostly from the musical traditions of Quebec, Ireland, Appalachia, and New England.

Party on the Pier helps to raise funds for the Pemaquid Watershed Association in support of its mission to conserve the natural resources of the Pemaquid Peninsula through land and water stewardship and education. Party on the Pier tickets are still only $25 each and may be purchased at the PWA office located above Salt Bay Café in Damariscotta (visit www.pemaquidwatershed.org for directions) or at the Maine Coast Book Shop, or reserved by contacting PWA at 563-2196 or pwalearn@midcoast.com.  Plan now to be a part of this fantastic party for a cause that is made possible by The Contented Sole.