Walking the trails at Bonyun Preserve, you will see a variety of natural areas that support diverse flora and fauna. A tidal inlet on Mill Cove’s salt marsh supports wading birds such as snowy egret and great blue heron, as well as migrating shorebirds. Mixed old-growth woods of white pine, oak, and hemlock are habitat for woodpeckers and songbirds.
Sasanoa River Estuary is part of the Kennebec-Androscoggin watershed, which drains one-third of the state into the Gulf of Maine. The estuary is a nationally-recognized habitat for birds and fish. This section of the East Coast flyway is essential for the survival of migrating birds. Over 40 species of fish use these waters including striped bass, Morone saxatilis.
Historically, tidal mills used to be common to Westport Island performing many functions including sawing wood and grinding meal. A new interpretive sign has been added to the Bonyun Preserve Mill Cove trail showing what the historic Lower Heal Mill, of which only the dam and pilings remain today, looked like when in operation in 1850.
Bonyun Preserve is conservation land managed primarily for the preservation of wildlife. The Preserve is open free of charge to the public from dawn to dusk. Help us protect what you have come to enjoy. Natural areas are delicate. Foot traffic only. No camping, fires, pets, bicycles, or motorized vehicles. Please respect boundary signs and enjoy your visit.
Visit Kennebec Estuary Land Trust online for more information or contact:
From US Route 1 between Woolwich and Wiscasset, take ME Route 144 south 10 miles to its second intersection with West Shore Road. Turn right on West Shore Road, and go 0.25 miles to the parking lot and kiosk on left. Trails are marked.
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