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 more MAKE A GIFT

Make 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.

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EXPLORE

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.

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VOLUNTEER

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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Trails, preserves, and farms

Explore the waters and lands of the watershed.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

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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What’s new

Upcoming Events

Sep

Get Out! Nature Walk: Woods in Autumn

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

2:00 pm

3:30 pm

Rines Forest, 352-362 Range Rd, Cumberland

Explore the beautiful woods of Rines Forest in autumn! We will be looking for signs of the changing seasons and evidence of how nature adapts. The trail will be uneven and steep in a few sections, so appropriate footwear and poles (if you need extra support) are recommended.

Naturalists: Karen Massey and Mary Brandes

More Info

Oct

'Round the Marsh at Thayer Brook Preserve

Friday, October 16, 2026

1:30 pm

4:30 pm

Thayer Brook Preserve, 92 Ramsdell Rd, Gray

Save the date for our fourth annual free 'Round the Marsh hike at Thayer Brook Preserve in Gray on Friday, October 16th at 1:30 pm.

The 3.4-mile guided trek will be led by Trail Steward and long-serving volunteer Steve McPike, whose thorough knowledge of the preserve and the entire Libby Hill Forest trail network will add significant depth and texture to the hike. Plan for a three-hour visit to one of Cumberland County's most remote and intriguing places.

More Info