Lying between the West and Indian rivers northwest of Jonesport, Crowley Island is a 700-acre natural oasis for shorebirds and migratory waterfowl. It provides critical habitat to a number of species at risk, including black ducks. Much of the island will be managed to foster its wildlife habitat, thanks to the collective efforts of generous landowners, the Pleasant River Wildlife Foundation (PRWF), Maine Coast Heritage Trust, and the Great Auk Land Trust (now known as the Downeast Coastal Conservancy). Funding and logistical support for the most recent 183-acre purchase came from the Land for Maine’s Future program, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Gulf of Maine Program, and Ducks Unlimited, Inc.
The protected property, which includes more than 2 miles of the island’s most critical shoreline, is now owned by the nonprofit PRWF. The interior and shoreline will remain wild and accessible to the public. “There are fewer and fewer places on the coast of Maine that can truly be described as coastal wilderness,” says former GALT President Robert Miller, “Crowley Island is one of them.” Addison selectmen strongly endorsed this conservation project, recognizing that area residents would benefit from free access to the shorefront for recreation, clamming, and worming.
Closest Town
Jonesport
Activities
Bird & other wildlife watching, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hunting, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking
Region
Downeast Maine – Hancock & Washington
Acres
183
Directions from nearest town
DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer Map 26, E-1. See also NOAA chart #13326
