Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a coastal nature preserve managed by the Great Works Regional Land Trust in partnership with the University of New England. Located on the southern coast of Maine in the town of Wells, this protected area encompasses nearly 2,250 acres of diverse habitats, including tidal salt marshes, freshwater wetlands, upland forests, and barrier beaches. The reserve is especially known for its expansive salt marsh, one of the largest in New England, which supports a variety of wildlife such as migratory shorebirds, ospreys, and rare plants. Visitors can explore more than 10 miles of well-maintained trails that wind through maritime forests and along estuaries, offering opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and quiet nature walks. The reserve also features the Laudholm Environmental Education Center housed in historic farm buildings, providing year-round programs on coastal ecology and conservation. Wells Reserve at Laudholm draws naturalists, school groups, researchers, and families interested in experiencing Maine’s coastal environments in a preserved state. Distinctive features include the marsh dike trails, observation platforms, and access to Wells Harbor. The area's history dates back to colonial farming settlements, with interpretive displays highlighting the transformation from agricultural use to ecological sanctuary. This reserve stands out as a key coastal research area and a public outdoor destination where visitors can connect with Atlantic coastal ecosystems and understand long-term environmental stewardship.
