top of page
DJI_0026 (1).jpg

Hirundo Wildlife Refuge is 2,460 acres of conserved woodlands and wetlands just West of Old Town, Maine dedicated to preserving nature while providing educational, and recreational opportunities to the public.

 

 Hirundo offers 7+ miles of marked trails, river access, public programs, and free rental opportunities for canoes, kayaks, and snowshoes. Our universal access trail, the Trail of the Senses, offers sensory and mobility impaired communities as well as the elderly an opportunity to access and experience nature.

 

With its proximity to the University of Maine campus in Orono, the Refuge acts as a living laboratory for a wide range of University classes and student projects.

 

Hirundo offers environmental educational programs to schools and the public throughout the year and is dedicated to cultivating a love of nature in local youth and fostering future generations of environmental stewards.

32535951741_9f52cc7cb6_b.jpg

MISSION STATEMENT

To enjoy, understand, and protect Hirundo's natural and cultural environment for the mutual well-being of our human and wildlife communities.

In Short: Enjoy, Learn, Protect.

VISION STATEMENT

Everyone living in balance with nature.

VALUES

We believe that there is a mutually beneficial relationship between the people and the natural communities in which they live.

We believe that an understanding of nature stimulates an active involvement in stewardship.

We believe that all people regardless of origin, age, abilities or financial resources can benefit from an intimate association with nature.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Trustees                                                                     Title                                      Background                                     

Dick Andren   (EdD)                                                                                                Educator

Craig Colson                                                                                                           Contractor and Journalist

Charles Day, CA(SA), CPA                                      Treasurer                                Accountant,Lecturer in Accounting UMaine    

Dan Day                                                                                                                   Business Administration

Madeleine Landrum                                                Student Trustee                    UMaine PhD Candidate  

Roxane Larouche   (RN, MSN, ANP)                                                                     OR Nurse, Birder

Stephanie Larouche (MD)                                       Chair                                      Clinical Research

Veronica Larouche   (MA)                                                                                       Hospital Russian Translator

Margaret “Peggy” LeClair   (MBA)                                                                        Accountant

G. Radford “Rad” Mayfield, III   (MS/MA)                                                             Science Teacher, Bird Bander

Peter Schilling                                                                                                          Educator 

Mary Jean "MJ" Sedlock (MFA)                                                                            Technical Theatre

Rebecca Sgouros  (MSc)                                         Vice Chair                              Environmental Archaeology

STAFF

gudrun staff pic.png

Gudrun Keszöcze

Refuge Manager & Naturalist

Gudrun has been with Hirundo since 2010, maintaining the refuge, leading programs, supervising volunteers, and sharing her passion for what makes Hirundo special. A certified Maine Guide, Gudrun loves to be on the water, and believes every outdoor experience teaches something new.

Favorite Trail: Needle & Leaf

Favorite Season: Spring

Favorite Wildlife: Bloodroot

Deanna (2).jpeg

Deanna Fahey

Volunteer Coordinator

 Over the last 11 years Deanna has combined a passion for the outdoors with her passion for education to promote nature based play through education in a variety of settings. Deanna oversees Hirundo's Volunteer efforts and rental operations.

Favorite Trail: Wabanaki

Favorite Season: Fall

Favorite Wildlife: Beaver

IMG_5832 (1).JPG

Elizabeth Brennan

Social Media

Elizabeth is a wildlife major at the University of Maine, Orono, with a particular interest in ornithology. After she graduates she hopes to work as a wildlife biologist, outdoor
educator, or begin a career with the National Parks Service.

Favorite Place: Lac D'or

Favorite Season: Fall

Favorite Wildlife:

Bald Eagle

bottom of page