The Francis Small Heritage Trust is a private, not-for-profit conservation land trust that was founded in 1990. We obtain land and easements for public access and traditional uses such as hiking, hunting, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling on existing trails. The Trust owns 2,400 acres and holds easements on an additional 580 acres. The trust holds land in northern York County, southern Oxford County, and western Cumberland County in Maine. You can learn more about our properties here.
Mission:
“The Francis Small Heritage Trust protects wildlife habitat, watersheds, forests, and farms in southwestern Maine to support conservation, climate resilience, low-impact recreation, traditional uses, environmental education, and to honor Indigenous connections to the land. “
Vision:
Francis Small Heritage Trust will safeguard large, connected landscapes that support biodiversity, climate resilience, rural livelihoods, and local traditions. Our lands will support a variety of recreational uses while intentionally protecting habitat and wilderness; our partnerships with Indigenous communities and local residents will be strong; our organization will have the people and resources needed to sustain this work for generations to come.
Values:
- Dedication – We are committed and hard‑working in the service of our mission and community.
- Community Collaboration – We work in genuine partnership with volunteers, neighbors, and local organizations—engaging deeply, sharing knowledge, and building lasting relationships—to care for the land and enrich our community for everyone.
- Conservation, Preservation & Stewardship – We honor and protect the natural, historical, and recreational value of the places entrusted to us while balancing providing public access with protecting wild areas.
- Integrity & Responsibility – We act thoughtfully and ethically, with care for both the land and our community resources.
- Vision for the Future – We look ahead with creativity and determination to ensure the land and community thrive for generations.
- Education – We are dedicated to providing accessible educational opportunities for people of all ages in our community. Additionally, whenever appropriate, we commit to sharing information and cultivating a culture of respect, understanding, and appreciation for the history, values, and lifeways of Indigenous peoples connected to our lands.
- Grounded & Accessible – We remain rooted in our local community, responsive to emerging needs, and strive to be welcoming to all.
How we carry it out:
- By accepting donations of land and conservation easements
- By presenting educational programs to help foster an appreciation of land and nature
- By acquiring land through purchase
- By providing information and support to towns and landowners
- By protecting the present character of the land centered around the towns of Limerick, Cornish, Limington, Newfield, Parsonsfield, Hiram, Porter & Baldwin by ensuring the continuation of natural areas while supporting compatible uses, such as agriculture and forestry.
Francis Small Heritage Trust, Inc. 