Since its foundation in 1988, BRCA has preserved more than 920 acres, including popular recreational spots like The Mountain and French Mountain in Rome, and has led the successful effort to acquire the 6,000-acre Kennebec Highlands in central Maine.

November 1, 1988 - Founded/incorporated as the Watson Pond Conservation Trust

January 31, 1990 - Became a 501 (c) (3) organization as determined by the IRS

1990 - Acquired first property: French Mountain and 34 acres on the west shore of Watson Pond in Rome

November 22, 1991 - Changed name to Belgrade Regional Conservation Alliance and revised articles of incorporation to reflect broadened focus

1995 - Founded Belgrade Lakes Conservation Corps

1998 - Acquired The Mountain in Rome in collaboration with Belgrade Lakes Association

1998 - Initiated 6,000 acre Kennebec Highlands project in central Maine

1999 - Acquired first conservation easements: Pentlarge property with old growth forest in Rome

1999 - Started Watershed Program with proceeds from Maine Department of Environmental Protection's NPS Grants Program

1999 - Began remediation programs to improve water quality on Salmon Lake and McGrath Pond in conjunction with the Kennebec County Soil and Water Conservation District

2000 - Completed watershed reports on East Pond and North Pond and published Great Pond watershed survey

2001 - Formed BRCA milfoil committee to combat invasive species

2002 - In collaboration with area lake associations, began summer boat inspections at local boat launchesÊto combat the spread of milfoil and other invasive species.

2002 - Created and filled year-round executive director position.

2004 - Acquired final two properties that completed the Kennebec Highlands, conserving 5,600 acres of watershed landÊin Rome, Vienna, Mt Vernon, and New Sharon. Planned for additional acquisitions and future expansion of the Highlands.

2004 - In collaboration with Pine Island Camp, acquired 207 acres onÊMt. Phillip in Rome, including the hiking trail and summit.