Sunrise Senior College Course: Natural & Cultural Histories of our Community Lands: DCC Preserves and Their Values for You

The Downeast Coastal Conservancy (DCC) is a land trust that cares for more than 7,000 acres of wetlands, mountains, beaches, lakes, rivers and islands in the coastal regions of Washington County. These lands and waters host stunning scenery and natural and cultural resources important to our Maine heritage. They support a diversity of wildlife; they hold the records of the many peoples who have lived in them for thousands of years. Many of these properties are in your backyard! And all of them are open to you. In this series of six sessions, we will delve into those elements (historical, scenic, ecological and recreational) that make these places significant for our communities. Explore with us what these lands and waters mean for you and your family!

Starting March 17th, every Wednesday for six weeks from 1:00 – 2:30pm.

Instructors –

Robin Pinto is a Landscape Historian with a Ph.D. from the University of Arizona. She is a frequent lecturer for historic and preservation organizations and is presently Vice President of the Downeast Coastal Conservancy and board member for the past 2 years.

Jon Southern is the Executive Director of DCC. He was the Regional Coordinator for Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in Washington and Hancock Counties. He teaches conservation and recreational safety education programs to share with others the importance of the wise use of Maine’s natural resources. Jon previously served as a Planner for the Passamaquoddy Tribal Government.

Cathy Lookabaugh is the Membership and Outreach Director for DCC. She has a background in Wildlife Ecology and Mathematics. As field supervisor with Hawaii Island Hawksbill Sea Turtle Recovery Project, she surveyed sea turtles. Cathy has worked as the Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator for the Maine Conservation Corps and for the youth non-profit, Trekkers.