Aceto Landscape Architects met with members of the planning committee in Grand Isle, before coronavirus social distancing protocols were implemented, to discuss plans for a nature project. From left are Gary Campbell, Nick Aceto, Caitlin Aceto, Steven Young, Derrick Young, George Dionne, Roger Gervais and Terry Helms. Committee members not in picture: Colin Jandreau, Lisa Beaulieu and Marcel Bellefleur. (Courtesy of Sheila Jans)

Grand Isle plans for nature and recreation project

Thanks to a planning grant from the Maine Conservation Fund of the Maine Community Foundation, Grand Isle is moving forward with a nature conservation and outdoor recreation initiative.

GRAND ISLE, Maine — Thanks to a planning grant from the Maine Conservation Fund of the Maine Community Foundation, Grand Isle is moving forward with a nature conservation and outdoor recreation initiative.

A volunteer committee and landscape architects are leading the way to create a preliminary conceptual/vision plan so that the town can apply for a grant this summer to the Land and Water Conservation Fund of the Maine Department of Parks and Lands for continued planning and implementation.

Four key community elements are being considered in planning: expansion of the existing boat landing on the St. John River, creation of a heritage/walking trail along the river, expansion and enhancement of the park/playground next to the community center, and continued development of the community forest as a living classroom for conservation, education, and recreation.

Terry Helms, Grand Isle selectman, said, “We want to leverage town assets to strengthen our economy and attract people to our community. Taking care of our natural resources while making them accessible and safe for recreation is really important. This planning will help us better understand what is viable and possible, what we’ll need for resources, and some useful ideas and concepts with visual perspectives.”

This planning phase is the first step to prepare for additional planning and implementation. For more information, contact the Grand Isle town office at 895-3420.