The York River watershed is notable for its historic structures and buildings, archaeological sites, scenic qualities, intact natural habitats, large forested areas, and ecological resilience.
York River Watershed
The York River watershed covers 33 square miles across 4 towns, including over 6,000 acres of conservation and drinking water supply lands.
Watershed Grants
We’re proud to support projects that implement the York River Watershed Stewardship Plan to protect or enhance watershed resources.
Stewardship Committee
The local partner for the nationally designated Wild and Scenic York River, the Stewardship Committee includes appointees from Eliot, Kittery, South Berwick, and York.
The York River Stewardship Committee’s next meeting is Tuesday, January 28, 2025 from 5:30 to 7:00 pm at the York Land Trust office (1 Long Neck Marsh Road, York). All meetings are open to the public. Contact Jennifer Hunter for more information.
Developed in 2018 as part of the York River Wild and Scenic Study, the plan includes recommendations to preserve the watershed’s natural resources, water quality, cultural and historic resources, working waterfront, recreational resources, and other river values.
National landmarks like Sewall’s Bridge and the McIntire Garrison are among the hundreds of historic buildings and structures found in the watershed.
Scientists found 23 species of fish in
tidal portions of the York River during a 2001 survey.
Working waterfront, recreation access, iconic views, and a rich and well-preserved history contribute to the river’s unique character.
Salt marshes in the estuary capture and store carbon, protect shorelines from erosion, and provide valuable habitat for many species.
Good water quality provides excellent aquatic habitat for fish and other species, and watershed reservoirs provide drinking water supplies for the region.
The watershed’s unfragmented natural areas, different forest types, and mix of freshwater and saltwater habitats make it one of the most biodiverse regions of Maine.
The York River is one of 228 rivers designated into the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System that was established to preserve rivers for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.