Forests and Lakes – For People – Forever ®

The Boats Are Afloat

August 8, 2018


With the village of Grand Lake Stream wedged between two of the largest lakes in Eastern Maine, it’s important to have reliable watercraft to reach far-flung areas of the Downeast Lakes Community Forest.  Downeast Lakes Land Trust is pleased to introduce our new “fleet.”

The Borden family, longtime friends of DLLT, have generously donated a beautiful, 9-person pontoon boat and trailer to DLLT.  In memory of family patriarch and former DLLT Board Member Neil “Pete” Borden, the boat has been christened “For Pete’s Sake”.  For Pete’s Sake has already been used for a DLLT children’s program, Explorations & Adventures, and will be a cornerstone of many future programs.

Our new workhorse boat is a small, 12’ aluminum-hulled skiff that was donated last fall.  It’s perfect for hauling tools, maintaining lakeside campsites, and keeping up with other chores in the hard-to-reach coves of the Downeast Lakes.  However, this boat has yet to be named, and we want your help!  Vote for your favorite name from the following nominees:

  • The Boom Tender (“Boomer,” for short)
  • Warden’s Worry (named for the fishing fly, of course!)
  • Wabash Cannonball

DLLT staff and interns on West Grand Lake

To vote for your favorite name- VOTE HERE!  In addition, an outboard motor and other boat equipment has been donated by two of our Corporate Sponsors – Moose Island Marine in Eastport and Johnson’s True Value in Calais.  Donations of goods and services are a great way for businesses to support our work (and reap the benefits of corporate sponsorship)!

In the absence of natural high points with sweeping views, the best way to appreciate the breadth and importance of the Downeast Lakes Community Forest is by getting out on the water.  The new DLLT fleet expands our options to do just that – sharing the expansive undeveloped shorelines of the Downeast Lakes with longtime supporters and first-time visitors alike!  Keep an eye out for these vessels on the lakes and watch for their use in upcoming DLLT programs!