At 1,857 acres, this expansive northern white cedar bog (extending out from Salmon Brook Lake) supports an array of northern plant species rare in Maine. It is home to the white water lily, pygmy water lily, marsh valerian, northern valerian, swamp pink, swamp honeysuckle, small round-leaf orchid, purple pyrola, Lapland buttercup, and showy lady’s slippers. Two portions of the bog are registered with the State’s Critical Areas Program, while other areas are designated as a state “ecological reserve” due to their diverse natural communities and potential value for research.
The bog’s ecological significance prompted The Nature Conservancy to join local citizens in seeking its protection, with funding support from the Land for Maine’s Future (LMF) program and other sources. Because this property constitutes 1.74 percent of Perham’s state valuation, the project went before voters for a public hearing and vote. They endorsed the project and the Bureau of Parks and Lands now owns and manages the property.
Salmon Brook Lake Bog is rich in recreational offerings as well as ecological significance. Its abundant wildlife, waterfowl, and wading birds make it popular with hunters, fishermen and trappers. Snowmobilers and mountain bikers cross the bog along the Aroostook Valley Rail Trail, another LMF project.
Please note: The vehicular uses listed refer only to the Aroostook Valley Rail Trail, not to wetland portions of the property.
Closest Town
Perham
Activities
Bird & other wildlife watching, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hunting, fishing, mountain biking, and snowmobiling
Region
Northern Maine – Aroostook
Acres
1857
Directions from nearest town
DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer Map 64, B-3/4. From Perham, go north on Route 228 for 2.5 miles. At the intersection with High Meadow Road (where Route 228 turns abruptly right), turn left. Continue .3 miles, turning right on the dirt Salmon Lake Road.
