NGX eds’ note: Even if you’re aware of the Chandler family’s recently completed land donation, we think you’ll appreciate this terrific in-depth article, with its photos, map, and details.
| Maureen Milliken, Mainebiz |
Maine Woodland Owners has become New Gloucester’s biggest landowner after a deal for more than 2,000 acres of forest that’s been in the works for 10 years was finalized in February.
The Chandler family signed over the last three of 17 parcels in February, and the property, combined, comprises the biggest donation the nonprofit has received in its 40 years, said Tom Doak, Maine Woodland Owners executive director. While discussions of the donation began 10 years ago, it was first made public in January 2018.
Doak isn’t certain what the market value of the land is — they don’t have it appraised, since it’s a gift, and they haven’t paid taxed on it yet. But, given the development potential of some of the parcels, he’d guess in the millions.
“Money is never the driver,” Doak said. The objective is to conserve land, but also manage it. Keep reading
