The Veazie Land Association (VLA) is a chapter of the Orono Land Trust. The Veazie chapter was formed after years of discussions between interested residents, conservation-minded landowners and the Veazie Conservation Commission. The goal of this chapter is to conserve trails and open spaces that are of high conservation priority to the residents of Veazie and its surrounding communities, while at the same time respecting private landowner property rights, including smart development. In this unique collaboration, the OLT benefits by being able to grow its membership, expanding its trail systems and increase conserved open space southerly toward the Bangor Mall and Mt. Hope Cemetery through land donations, easements and purchases. The VLA benefits by not having to re-invent the wheel.

It utilizes the OLT’s existing corporate structure that has proven to be both effective and long lasting through its highly competent and professional leadership. Most of the Veazie membership dues and all donations are held separately from other OLT funds and dedicated to Veazie projects, so Veazie residents are assured that their donations will go toward their intended target projects. A small portion of the membership dues is withheld by the OLT for administrative costs. The Veazie Land Association is responsible for the stewardship of its lands and trails.

Some projects that VLA is working on include a public recreational trail system heading from the Orono town line through the center of Veazie to the Bangor town line, with several off-shoots and loop trials connecting neighborhoods, conservation areas and town-owned property. We are also working toward acquiring development rights or outright ownership of properties with valuable conservation qualities from willing sellers. Other projects we will support include gaining public boat access to the Penobscot River from Veazie, working toward trail easements that help connect neighborhoods, and any other conservation opportunities that receive strong support from the community.

The Veazie Land Association holds periodic meetings, sometimes scheduled after a few select Veazie Conservation Commission meetings. Any interested parties are welcome and encouraged to attend these meetings. For notifications of meetings as they are scheduled, please send us your name, address, phone number and e-mail address. Email is preferable as most notifications go out via email. Membership forms dedicated to the Orono Land Trust – Veazie chapter are available at the Veazie Town Office or by contacting David Scheidt at 945-9093.

David Scheidt, Chair
Veazie Land Association

David Wardrop, Co-Chair
Veazie Land Association