Georges River Watershed Project

The Saint George River (Maine) flows from Saint George Lake in Liberty south to Thomaston, where it flows into the estuary and runs about 12 miles southwest to Muscongus Bay. 

I learned about this 225-square-mile watershed through the Georges River Land Trust. Since 1987 this organization has protected 5,069 acres (2023 total) along the river, including creating 20 preserves, 52 conservation easements, and 60+ miles of trails. It is along these trails that I have walked, recharged, and photographed.

Before Maine, my favorite place was the mountains of east Tennessee. The St. George River reminds me of the Little River area in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whenever I had the chance while living in Maryville (TN) I spent time photographing in those mountains, seeking to capture order in (what seemed to me) the chaos of the natural world.

The landscape in this watershed continues to challenge me to make images that express what is key. Time spent in the natural world is vital for reminding us of our connectivity to everything, including each other. Land trusts are important for keeping and protecting land and water from overdevelopment and isolation in private hands and acreage which supports plant and animal life that cannot live with less. 

Thank you to the visionaries who created the GRLT, and to all who support the work through land donation, with hand and financial gifts. This land has been put in trust for all to enjoy. May these images bring awareness and inspire others to enjoy this beautiful gift to all.  

Tillman Crane

2024