The Clark Cove property off Allen Point Road has been owned by the state for more than 50 years for the express purpose of providing recreational opportunities to Mainers. Now, the state and the town are proposing to enter into a management agreement to ensure this 18-acre parcel of shorefront land is better used for the benefit of residents and visitors. Currently, it is little used. Few are even aware of its existence, though it is on a list of Maine Island Trail Association sites.
Though some concern has been expressed at public meetings about aspects of this proposed agreement, it seems to me that local management would ensure wise and appropriate use of this property into the future. Town management would guarantee active monitoring by town staff and volunteer stewards, as is the case with all town lands now.
Such a management agreement is entirely consistent with the town’s priorities. See Goal 1 under Natural Resources on Page 33 of the 2025 comprehensive plan: “To steward the town’s network of open space and the environmental, scenic, cultural, or recreational values they provide.”)
It makes sense to ensure that the close to 1,500 feet of undeveloped shoreline along the eastern margin of this property is available to and managed by the citizens of Harpswell as opposed to a state agency in Augusta.
The town envisions only light improvements to improve access to the shore via limited off-road parking and some path enhancements. And, of course, by entering into a management agreement with the state, the town and its residents will have input into and control of all such improvements — something it does not have presently.
Geoff Feiss, Great Island
