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Protecting the Royal River for current and future generations
Protecting the Royal River for current and future generations
who we are
Royal River Conservation Trust (RRCT) is a Southern Maine land trust focused on conserving land across the communities of the watershed.
Founded in 1988, the Trust protects and stewards land through acquisition, conservation easements and other legal agreements, and collaboration with a wide range of conservation partners. RRCT's work is made possible almost exclusively by charitable gifts.
Learn moreMAKE A GIFTMake a gift
Make a gift to protect our watershed
Your gift to Royal River Conservation Trust protects and stewards fields, forests, farmland, wetlands, and trails throughout the Royal River watershed.
Learn moreEXPLORE
Explore our watershed
All Royal River Conservation Trust preserves possess their own unique characteristics and are open to the public free of charge year-round.
Learn moreVOLUNTEER
Volunteer to protect our watershed
Volunteers established Royal River Conservation Trust in 1988 and continue to be vital to our operations. We are always looking for talented people to help advance our mission.
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Photo Credit Kristel Hayes
Interested in becoming a volunteer?
Volunteers established RRCT in 1988 and continue to be vital to its operations. From trail stewards and committee members, to special event supporters and Board Directors, the Trust welcomes community involvement and wants to hear from you.
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Upcoming Events
2026 Wescustogo Paddle
Join us for Royal River Conservation Trust's Fourth Annual Wescustogo Paddle on Saturday, June 6th!
Dust off your canoe or kayak and join us for scenic and leisurely canoe/kayak trip down the Royal River! This group paddle is perfect for both novice and experienced paddlers. The route winds through stretches of conserved riverbank, offering beautiful views and a peaceful paddle.
Riverfest - Royal River Celebration Block Party
Come join us in Yarmouth for the Royal River Celebration Block Party!
- Live Music featuring Fight at the Family Picnic
- Free Admission
- Beer Garden with Brickyard Hollow Tap Truck featuring “Upstream” Tribute Beer!
- Cornhole
- Frisbee on the Town Green
Mussel Bed Mapping Extravaganza
Join RRCT, Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) and several partner organizations for a mussel bed mapping extravaganza event that spans the coast of Maine and New Hampshire! Help us observe where mussels are (and importantly, where they aren't) during an extreme low tide on June 18. While in the field collecting observations, you'll also be learning about blue mussel beds, local ecosystems, and ongoing research. The data you collect will be put to use in GMRI's Mussel Bed Mapping Community Science Project.