Estuary Habitat

The Damariscotta River system is an area of exceptional ecological value and productivity.

ROUND TOP FARM

EELGRASS MEADOWS

Eelgrass beds are located throughout the estuary. These are extremely productive and ecologically important plant communities that provide shelter, habitat, and feeding areas for many fish, birds, invertebrates, and other species. They also absorb nutrients and other water contaminants and help dissipate tidal and wave energy, stabilizing shorelines and reducing erosion.

SHELLFISH GROWING HABITAT

This region once supported massive numbers of natural shellfish beds, as evidenced by the piles of shells (middens) left behind by indigenous harvesters. The shellfish aquaculture industry continues to thrive here today; this area is responsible for 80% of Maine's oyster production.

HORSESHOE CRAB BREEDING GROUND

This area is one of the best horseshoe crab breeding grounds in the state. Horseshoe crabs are an important food source for many species. In addition, their blood has unique properties that make it useful in pharmaceutical testing. Horseshoe crabs are currently protected in Maine. Maine lies towards the northern edge of the current habitat range for white-tailed deer. Woodlands, especially scattered stands of conifers, provide shelter and browse that are critical for deer survival through the winter. Maintaining these areas plays an important role in the long-term management of this species.

ALEWIFE BREEDING GROUND

Diadromous fish such as the alewife are abundant in the estuary. These species use both marine and freshwater habitats during their life cycle. Historically, the Damariscotta alewife fishery was the largest in the state, and the spring spawning run provides an important food source for birds of prey like osprey and bald eagles.

DEER OVERWINTERING AREA TIDAL WADING BIRD/WATERFOWL HABITAT

Many of the shoreline features and intertidal areas provide valuable habitat and forage for wading birds and waterfowl. In addition, this is an important stopover site for migrating shorebirds.

BALD EAGLE NESTING HABITAT

Bald eagle nests are scattered along the sea coast and river shores. They prefer large trees like old white pine near water and away from human disturbance for breeding habitat. Several decades ago, bald eagles were nearly extirpated from Maine, but concentrated recovery efforts and ongoing protections have resulted in increasing populations today.