Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society (RGS & AWS) is honored to announce the generous donation of 72 acres of forestland in Frankfort, Maine, (in Waldo County) by the Benjamin E. Jeffries Family Trust. This incredible gift reflects the late Mr. Jeffries’ lifelong dedication to the outdoors, upland hunting and forest conservation, and ensures his legacy will inspire future generations of conservationists and sportsmen alike.
A Legacy Rooted in the Outdoors
Benjamin E. Jeffries was a passionate outdoorsman with deep ties to Maine’s upland hunting culture. His vision for the land he stewarded was clear: to enhance its conservation value and provide sustainable habitat for wildlife. Over the years, the Jeffries family managed this property to support the health and diversity of the forest, creating a haven for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and countless other species. Their commitment embodies the spirit of responsible land stewardship and the deep cultural connection to Maine’s forests and wildlife.
In late 2023, the Jeffries family reached out to RGS & AWS with a vision to honor Benjamin’s legacy. Their wish was not only to donate this remarkable property but to ensure it continued to serve as a vital habitat for upland bird species and as a resource for the community. This act of generosity allows public access for upland hunting to remain a cornerstone of the land’s significant contribution in a state where most land is privately owned.
Enhancing Habitat, Expanding Access
The donated property exemplifies high conservation value, featuring diverse forest habitats that are crucial for the survival and prosperity of Ruffed grouse, American woodcock, and other wildlife species. Over the years, the land has been actively managed to support young forest regeneration and to foster rich ecological diversity. These management practices align with the RGS & AWS mission to promote healthy, diverse forests and enhance habitats that benefit wildlife and local ecosystems.
Perhaps most noteworthy is the decision to grant public access to the property for upland hunting. This aspect of the donation is deeply meaningful. By opening this forestland to the public, the Jeffries family has not only honored Benjamin’s passion for the outdoors but also supported the broader hunting and conservation community.
A Call to Conservation-Minded Landowners
The Jeffries family’s generosity demonstrates how landowners can leave a lasting impact on wildlife conservation and public access. At RGS & AWS, we believe that partnerships like these are critical to the future of sustainable forest management and upland hunting traditions. This donation underscores the importance of private landowners’ roles in advancing conservation efforts, and we’re incredibly grateful to the Jeffries family for their trust and vision.
We invite other conservation-minded individuals and families to consider the potential of their own land to support wildlife habitat and public engagement. By partnering with RGS & AWS, landowners can help preserve the traditions and values we hold dear while making a profound impact on forest health and wildlife conservation.
Gratitude and Forward Vision
The Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society extends heartfelt thanks to the Benjamin E. Jeffries Family Trust for their extraordinary gift. This property will serve as a lasting testament to Benjamin’s love of the outdoors and his commitment to conservation. Together, we will honor his legacy by continuing to steward this land responsibly and ensuring it remains a vibrant habitat and a place for the public to connect with nature.
To learn more about how you can support RGS & AWS or explore opportunities to leave your own conservation legacy, visit RuffedGrouseSociety.org.
