Whittier Brook in the Denny Phillips Legacy Forest

7 Lakes Alliance permanently protects Denny Phillips Legacy Forest

7 Lakes Alliance has permanently protected the Denny Phillips Legacy Forest, a 200-acre conservation area that serves as a critical ecological link between the Kennebec Highlands and conserved lands to the east.

Acquired in March, the parcel straddles Route 27 just north of Rome Center and lies within a 5,700-acre contiguous landscape—one of the largest remaining undeveloped habitat blocks in the region. The property includes the southwestern slopes of Martin Hill, 3,300 feet of Whittier Brook, and a mature, well-managed hardwood forest.

The project honors the legacy of Denny Phillips, a champion of the Kennebec Highlands whose early vision, steadfast commitment, and tireless efforts helped shape and define many of the region’s lasting conservation achievements.

Immediate Impact

Old barn on the property

In addition to its conservation values, the property offers unique opportunities to advance 7 Lakes Alliance’s programmatic work. A historic farmhouse on site will help address a critical need for seasonal staff housing. The property also includes a barn and open field, which will serve as a staging and storage area for the organization’s Erosion Control Program.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, 7 Lakes Alliance plans to establish a native plant conservation nursery on the property, further strengthening its science-based approach to watershed protection.

The property is open to the public for low-impact recreation, nature study, and hunting. 7 Lakes Alliance is also developing a trail plan and ultimately envisions constructing approximately 2.5 miles of trails here.

“This conservation effort reflects the power of community,” said 7 Lakes Alliance CEO Chris Monz. “We are deeply grateful to the supporters and partners who made this success possible. Together, we are safeguarding open space, protecting water quality, preserving wildlife habitat, and ensuring access to the natural beauty that defines the region—for today and for future generations.”

This project was made possible through support from the State’s Maine for Land’s Future program, along with generous contributions from local donors.

About Dennis Phillips

Denny Phillips, a co-founder of the Belgrade Regional Conservation Alliance, was one of the pioneering conservationists in the Belgrade Lakes region. Through his leadership, iconic properties such as French Mountain, the Kennebec Highlands, and The Mountain were permanently conserved.

A longtime resident of Rome, Denny built a distinguished career with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection. He also served on the Rome Planning Board for 25 years, where he helped enact shoreline zoning ordinances and played a key role in opposing a proposed cell tower.

As an officer in the Maine Army National Guard, Denny was both an accomplished helicopter pilot and a leader in environmental response efforts, including oil spill mitigation.

A passionate outdoorsman, avid hiker, and mountain biker, Denny loved exploring the woods and waters of the Belgrade Lakes region. He dedicated much of his life to ensuring these landscapes would be protected for future generations.

Updated May 11, 2026