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.
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
Andren, Dick (EdD) Ecology Educator
Day, Dan Business Administration
Larouche, Roxane (RN, MSN, ANP) OR Nurse, Birder
Larouche, Stephanie (MD) Chair Clinical Research
Larouche, Veronica (MA) Hospital Russian Translator
LeClair, Margaret “Peggy” (MBA) Accountant
Mayfield, III, G. Radford “Rad” (MS/MA) Science Teacher, Bird Bander
Ravello, Alex Student Trustee UMaine student
Sedlock, Mary Jean (MFA) Technical Theatre
Sgouros, Rebecca (MSc) Vice Chair Environmental Archaeology
Vollmers, Gloria (PhD) Treasurer Accountant
STAFF
Jen Brooks
Executive Director
Jen has extensive experience in non-profit management and oversees day to day operations of Hirundo. Jen is passionate about helping Hirundo realize its goals, further its mission, and expanding its reach across the community.
Favorite Trail: Meadow
(also paddling the stream)
Favorite Season: Fall
Favorite Wildlife: Fox
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 Fahey
Kids in Nature Program 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 Kids in Nature initiative and produces programming to immerse youth in the wonders of nature.
Favorite Trail: Wabanaki
Favorite Season: Fall
Favorite Wildlife: Beaver
Samantha Ford
Social Media Consultant
Sam is the social media gremlin, one of the rarest species found at Hirundo. When she isn't sharing Hirundo's natural wonders and interesting tidbits about the environment, she can be found trailing stone walls and investigating other cultural clues that inform our past land use history.
Favorite Trail: Wabanaki
Favorite Season: Fall
Favorite Wildlife: Saw-whet Owl
