- Details
- By Chez Oxendine
- Real Estate
The Mi’kmaq Nation has acquired a 3,400-acre property in northern Maine, more than doubling the amount of land it owns and stewards, tribal officials announced on June 22.
The property in Bridgewater includes forests, wetlands and more than three miles of North Whitney Brook, which provides habitat for brook trout. It also contains several miles of a former railroad bed that connects to state‑owned portions of the Bangor & Aroostook Multi‑Use Trail. The tribe said existing public access for ATV riders, snowmobilers, bicyclists and pedestrians will continue.
Known as Mesgilg Magamigew or “big land,” the property sits between Houlton and Presque Isle, two of the largest population centers for Mi'kmaq citizens. Tribal officials said its location makes it one of the most accessible natural areas under Nation stewardship.
The acquisition is the sixth completed through Tributary Land Returns, a partnership between Maine’s five federally recognized Wabanaki tribes and seven non‑native organizations that aim to return more than 50,000 acres across 11 projects.
“For decades the Mi'kmaq citizens have seen their traditional hunting and gathering grounds disappear to development or private ownership not allowing access,” said Mi'kmaq Chief Sheila McCormack in a statement. “This property will give our people a place for outdoor recreation, a place to teach our children how to hunt and fish, and a place we can pass down the traditions of our ancestors before they are forgotten.”
Project partners include The Conservation Fund, The Nature Conservancy of Maine, Maine Coast Heritage Trust and several philanthropic foundations.
