One of the most remarkable things about the Land & Garden Preserve is the number of people who care deeply about it. Some of that care takes the form of the daily work accomplished by our team. Across the gardens and natural lands of the Preserve, our gardeners, land stewards, and greenhouse teams spend the whole year tending plants, maintaining trails, and preparing landscapes for the season ahead. Others contribute through volunteer service, offering their time and knowledg

As spring returns to Mount Desert Island, we’re delighted to share the opening dates for the Preserve’s beloved gardens, each one offering its own seasonal magic. Online reservations on the Preserve's website : Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden visits: reservations open on March 20 Guided Field Walks and Garden Tours: reservations open on May 6* Asticou Azalea Garden Lantern Stroll: reservations open on May 6* *May 20 for non-members Photo by Bob Thayer Asticou Azalea Gar

As we head into spring, a friendly reminder that the Preserve’s seasonal dog leash policies go back into effect on May 1, 2026. For the safety of wildlife, visitors, and your pups, all dogs must be kept on leash between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. through September. Policies are in effect year-round at Hunters Cliffs and on the trails around Thuya Garden where dogs must always be leased. Dogs are not permitted on Harbor Brook Trail. Before your next walk, please take a moment to revie

When Andy Brand talks about plants, his whole face lights up. It’s the unmistakable glow of someone who has spent a lifetime, quite literally, growing things. Andy grew up in the northeastern corner of Connecticut, in a family where agriculture wasn’t just an interest, but a way of life. His father, a professor in agricultural economics at the University of Connecticut, also ran the two-year agriculture school and served as interim dean more times than Andy can count. The fam