Wetlands protected in Maine.

A partnership between federal, state and non-profit groups helped preserve 35 acres of riverfront property in Yarmouth, Maine. One of the largest undeveloped parcels along Royal River in Yarmouth, the property includes almost half a mile of river frontage, forested uplands and salt and freshwater wetlands. The town of Yarmouth acquired the land with help from The Trust for Public Land, U.S. Reps. Tom Allen, Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins and Friends of Royal River. Through a congressional appropriation of $1.15 million from the Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program, and private fund-raising efforts from area residents and non-profit groups such as the Land for Maine's Future Program, a total of $2 million was raised to purchase the property. "The acquisition of this treasured estuary property will protect both the recreational and natural resources within the town's boundaries for generations to come," said Sen. Snowe. The land includes more than a mile of walking and cross-country ski trails, a freshwater pond, scenic views and recreational opportunities for Yarmouth's residents.