NORTH HAVEN, Maine — A 153-acre farm on North Haven Island has been donated to the American Farmland Trust, which plans to continue using it as working farmland.
The Turner Farm was one of North Haven’s largest farms in the 1800s and it underwent restoration under the ownership of financier and philanthropist Donald Sussman, who donated the land to the trust.
The American Farmland Trust is dedicated to protecting farmland and promoting environmentally sound farming practices.
During an interview with The Portland Press Herald, American Farmland Trust President and CEO, John Piotti, described the farm as a beautiful and vibrant farm that nourishes its local community. He went on to highlight the farm's historical significance and how it will impact future developments. "Native people have been living on this piece of land long before European settlers arrived in Maine," Piotti said. "The historical significance of this land is foremost in our minds as we plan for its future."
The Portland Press Herald says Sussman who happens to be the publication's former owner, has made other generous donations locally and around the world.