Year Conserved: 2018
Acres: 3,800
About the Property: Fourth Machias Lake is part of the Machias River system, which is considered to be one of the premier wilderness paddling trips in the Northeast. This property was first conserved in 2005, with FSM accepting the assignment of the conservation easement in 2018. The Fourth Machias Lake Ecological Reserve is mostly roadless and is buffered by a late-successional management area of 3,751 acres. The Ecological Reserve is intended to represent the biodiversity of the area allowing ecosystems to develop and evolve without direct human interference and providing habitats for species whose needs may not be fully met on managed lands. This is an opportunity for scientific research, long-term monitoring, and education.
Recreational Opportunities: Paddling, fishing, wildlife viewing, camping. Visit Downeast Lakes Land Trust’s website for information on recreational activities permitted and the Downeast Lakes Water Trail campsites.
Project Partners: Downeast Lakes Land Trust, Sweet Water Trust.
