The Conservation Fund Protects Jobs, Outdoor Recreation in Northwestern Maine

SOMERSET AND FRANKLIN COUNTIES, MAINE — The Conservation Fund announced today it has acquired the 44,000-acre Hilton Family Forest in northern Maine, working to ensure the land can remain open to recreation and supporting the local economy.

For generations, the Hilton Family Forest has been important to people on both sides of the U.S.-Canadian border as a source of jobs, economic vitality, recreation and stability. The Conservation Fund purchased this property, located along the Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway of Route 201 north of Jackman, to ensure it continues to provide for the region and avoid possible conversion, subdivision and development of the forest.

The Conservation Fund is now working with the community to shape a permanent conservation solution.

“This land has long helped sustain the people of Jackman and Moose River and beyond, and it will continue to do so,” said Tom Duffus, The Conservation Fund’s vice president and northeast representative based in Freeport. “The Conservation Fund is in the business of conservation — and we bought this land because we want to ensure it remains a working forest, supporting the local economy and community, all while maintaining the incredible habitats and recreation access that so many people enjoy.”

“The Hilton Land is a valued resource for the Jackman Community,” according to Jackman Town Manager Kirstie Hale. “With The Conservation Fund assuring us these lands will remain a working and open forest, I am appreciative of their efforts to keep them a part of our lives and livelihoods.”

Featuring four mountain tops, waterfalls and frequent moose sightings, the Hilton Family Forest supports the local timber and maple sugar industries. Additionally, The Conservation Fund will work to continue offering important options on the land for hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, trapping, snowmobile and ATV trails. The forest includes a segment of Maine’s Interconnected Trail System.

Beyond these important benefits, conserving the forest forever safeguards the headwaters of the South Branch of the Penobscot River. Moreover, the land contains populations of multiple rare plant and animal species, including the Golden eagle and Peregrine falcon.

“Defining and implementing a sustainable, sensible conservation solution for the forest will take time, collaboration and financial support,” Duffus said. “We anticipate owning and managing this land for several years and eventually passing it, with permanent protections in place, to a private owner committed to advancing the forest’s conservation and economic benefits. As we work to find a lasting solution, our ongoing conversations and partnerships with the community remain a critical part of our process.”

The Conservation Fund is actively working to raise the necessary funds to permanently safeguard this property and ensure all the benefits it provides — critical wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, cultural significance and sustainable economic resources — are protected for generations to come. To donate, visit www.conservationfund.org.

About The Conservation Fund
The Conservation Fund protects the land that sustains us all. We are in the business of conservation, creating innovative solutions that drive nature-based action in all 50 states for climate protection, vibrant communities and sustainable economies. We apply effective strategies, efficient financing approaches, and enduring government, community and private partnerships to protect millions of acres of America’s natural land, cultural sites, recreation areas and working forests and farms. To learn more, visit www.conservationfund.org.