Acquisition Project – Birch Island
In partnership with:
Acquisition History
Birch Island, located off Chester, is in its natural state and has experienced public use for many years. The island has been on MICA’s list as a strategic potential acquisition.
Discussions with the owner several years ago and with the Department of Natural Resources eventually led to a sale in March of 2022. A fund raising campaign plus a very significant contribution by the Municipality of Chester allowed MICA to meet its financial commitment for this acquisition. The island certainly meets MICA’s criteria and is the second island acquisition in the Municipality of Chester.
Island Description
The island of about 16 acres is a typical drumlin island. It has a nice beach on the north west side with deep water for anchoring. As do many Mahone bay islands, it has a brackish pond that provides a home to much wildlife. The island is treed with the typical mix of hardwoods and softwoods.