As part of Hancock Land Company’s commitment to Ecological Forestry, globally and regionally unique natural areas (forested and non-forested) are protected. The locations of these Unique Stewardship Areas are documented in Integrated Forest Management's Geographic Information System database and management plans are developed to give protection to sensitive areas that could otherwise be harmed by harvest operations.

Hancock Land Company has used conservation easements to further guarantee protection of some Unique Stewardship Areas.

Jugtown

In October of 2000, Hancock Land Company entered into a conservation easement agreement with The Nature Conservancy and the State of Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands to preserve the unique character of the Jugtown Plains. The easement encompasses over 3,200 acres of contiguous forest bordering the Crooked River in Casco, Naples, and Otisfield. This easement prevents development, ensures continued public access, and allows for sustainable forestry. The agreement also protects 269 acres of a rare pitch pine-heath forest community. For more information about this special project, visit Nature.org

Mount Blue Area

In December 2001, Hancock Land Company, in partnership with the Trust for Public Land and the State of Maine Department of Conservation, created a multi-dimension conservation arrangement to protect, in perpetuity, the significant recreational, wildlife, ecological, and scenic values of Mount Blue, while maintaining the area’s continued use as economically productive timberland. Over 12,000 acres of land were protected in this unique partnership.

Recreation

Hancock Land Company is committed to the public’s responsible use of Hancock forestlands for non-commercial, outdoor recreational activities. We work closely with local communities of ATV, hunting, hiking, trailriding and sledding enthusiasts. We encourage the public to enjoy our forests in a safe and responsible manner.