As part of a complex multi-property purchase, the Land for Maine’s Future program funded State acquisition of 4,119 acres of woodland, wetlands, and cedar swamp along the Mattawamkeag River east of Kingman and 1,204 acres along 4 miles of its tributary, Mattagodus Stream. The highly productive wetlands that characterize both properties offer outstanding habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife.
The Mattagodus wetland system includes one of New England’s most ecologically significant fens (groundwater-fed wetlands). At least ten endangered and threatened species make their home here, including the Clayton’s copper butterfly (which only occurs at ten sites in the world), and a rare mayfly species whose only known occurrence is in Maine.
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIF&W) now owns and manages the Mattawamkeag River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and the Mattagodus Stream WMA. With additional support from LMF, the Department was able to purchase 1,204 acres of land (known locally as “Page Farm”) that lies between these protected properties, creating a contiguous tract of 6,748 conserved acres.
The beautiful scenery and challenging waters of the lower Mattawamkeag River (below Kingman) lure skilled canoeists ready to try their hand at rapids ranging up to Class IV. Now the State’s extensive Wildlife Management Area gives paddlers a chance to extend their trips upriver– enjoying 15 miles of undeveloped riverfront in a wildlife-rich landscape, where the meadows, shrubs, and wild apple trees of abandoned farms provide habitat for diverse species.
Closest Town
Kingman
Activities
Bird & other wildlife watching, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, backcountry camping, hunting, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking
Region
Northern Maine – Aroostook
Acres
6748
Directions from nearest town
DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer Map 44 B-5 and C-4/5, Map 45(?) B-1 and C-1. There are several established put-ins along the river, noted on the Atlas.
Banner photo: Mattawamkeag River in Island Falls, by Dan Tanner
