ROCKLAND – The Island Institute signed purchase and sale agreements on Thursday to transfer the ownership of six coastal Maine islands from the institute to Maine Coast Heritage Trust and the Chewonki Foundation.

The Chewonki Foundation has purchased the four larger islands, Hungry and Black Islands in Muscongus Bay, Campbell Island off Deer Isle and Russ Island off Stonington.

Maine Coast Heritage Trust will acquire Crow Island, which is used by nesting eagles, and Two Bush Island, which is important to the seabird nesting colony.

“This transfer will allow these islands to be protected by organizations whose primary mission is land management and conservation, while allowing the institute to focus on its primary mission of supporting programs that sustain working waterfronts and year-round island and coastal communities,” Island Institute President Philip Conkling said.

The Island Institute is a nonprofit organization that acts as a voice for the balanced future of Maine’s islands and the waters of the gulf. The Maine Coast Heritage Trust is a statewide conservation organization that works to protect Maine’s land, in particular its coastline and islands.

The Chewonki Foundation has a wide range of environmental education programs for students of all ages and its charter also provides education on land conservation.

Prior to the sale, the Island Institute will convey permanent conservation restrictions that guarantee continued public access on Russ, Hungry and Black Islands.

These restrictions will protect wildlife habitats and tightly limit development by allowing only minor structures, such as tent platforms, steps and signs.

Hungry and Russ Islands will have a small designated area for Chewonki programs and one small dock area on Hungry Island.

Similar restrictions already exist on Campbell Island, and are upheld by Island Heritage Trust.

“These islands offer a tremendous variety of recreational value for the public, including picnicking, exploring, camping and nature watching. We’re very pleased to be ensuring these opportunities for current and future generations,” said Jay Espy, president of Maine Coast Heritage Trust.