Have you ridden the trails in Bath? There are miles of legendary New England single and double track just minutes from downtown. The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) is raising funds to expand the Lilly Pond Community Forest. KELT has the option to purchase 100+ acres of land that is currently owned by developers and is slated for high-density housing (see map below). They only have until March 1st, 2019 to reach their funding goal, so time is of the essence.

This property contains some of the sweetest local single track including much of Nevaroney and a portion of Six Shooter. If you can, please help support KELT in their mission to conserve this land. Any donation, large or small will help.

KELT has been incredibly supportive of mountain biking in the region and has been a key partner in the formation of our Six Rivers NEMBA chapter. If you are a member of Six Rivers NEMBA, make sure to let KELT know when you make your donation. For more information, visit https://www.kennebecestuary.org/lpcf-expansion.

A letter from Six Rivers board member Bill Milam

Dear Fellow Riders,

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) is poised to obtain a significant parcel in south Bath that contains an extensive trail network with both single and double track. In the late 90’s when I was riding my rigid-frame Trek with center pull brakes on the ATV trails in the south end of Bath, I never dreamed we would be where we are today.

KELT has been a steadfast partner to the mountain biking community for over fifteen years.They were an integral member of Bath Trails, the municipal committee responsible for formalizing and connecting the network of informal trails along the Whiskeag Creek into the five-mile Whiskeag Trail. The “Gs” were accepted with KELT’s Lilly Pond Community Forest acquisition and expanded with G3, a popular loop around the gun turrets.

As users of the land, we can express our appreciation for these recreational privileges by supporting KELT.

Right now, our support is especially important. KELT is in the process of acquiring the 100-acre parcel abutting the Lilly Pond Community Forest immediately to the south. This property provides a better access point, a new parking area, and high value habitat in Bath and West Bath.The future of this land is uncertain without the protection the land trust can provide. Two thirds of the funds needed for the purchase have been secured, which leaves us the opportunity to help protect this valuable resource forever!

Riders as a user group can express support and gratitude for continued access to this terrain. We can participate by joining KELT and supporting this project with an outright gift or a pledge. These actions are meaningful and appreciated. Thank you for your consideration.

Bill Milam