PROTECTING THE PENJAJAWOC

The conclusion of a recent Audubon report on the Penjajawoc Marsh aptly sums up the promise and challenges of the re-discovered wetland. “The Penjajawoc Marsh is indeed an outstanding wetland … a unique and beautiful place. The pattern of ownership and proximity to the Bangor Mall will make carrying out this plan a challenge, but one worth the effort.”

The Bangor Land Trust, which commissioned the study, city officials and members of a newly-formed task force on the future of the marsh and surrounding commercial area should keep these words in mind as they made decisions about development in the area around the mall.

Five years ago, few people had heard of the Penjajawoc. Fewer still knew its significance. Now, thanks to battles over development around the grassy, wet area west of the Bangor Mall, the marsh is revered and reviled. To further discussions about the marsh the land trust asked Maine Audubon to do a wildlife study the Penjajawoc and recommended ways to protect it.

According to the study, the marsh itself is 300 acres in size and has been rated as one of the most valuable freshwater marshes in Maine by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. It was ranked fourth in the state for emergent marshes and sixth for its support of non-game water birds. IF&W rated the marsh as high-value waterfowl and wading bird habitat and suggested that it be considered for designation as Significant Wildlife Habitat, which carries with it restrictions on what can happen there.

More than 185 bird species have been recorded at the marsh and surrounding areas. Many species of frogs, turtles and other amphibians live there, as do some mammals, notably beavers.

The marsh is unique because it is connected to the vast wetland known as the Caribou Bog. This connection provides habitat for many species. This connection and the marsh itself is threatened by development.

To avoid this, Audubon has mapped a conservation plan. At a minimum, a core habitat area, which stretches 1,000 feet from the edge of the marsh, should be protected. Better yet, would be a 2,000-foot buffer. There is already development within this buffer, especially along Stillwater Avenue, so it is too late for this maximum protection option. However, the study and accompanying map should lead to discussions about easements and, perhaps, land swaps. Audubon points out that there are federal programs – and money – for landowners who want to protect wildlife habitat on their property.

Development has been a key city aim in the area around the marsh. Now that the significance of the marsh is known, the city should look for ways to balance the building of stores, restaurants and roads with protecting as much of the Penjajawoc as possible.