Battery Steele

Battery Steele was the first property protected by the Peaks Island Land Preserve; its preservation prompted the creation of the organization. In 2005, Battery Steele was listed in the historic register During World War II, Battery Steele was the most important fortification in Casco Bay. It's two 16" guns, triangulated by observation towers on Peaks Island, Jewell Island, Cushing Island, and Bailey Island could shoot a shell weighing 2,240 pounds nearly 30 miles at enemy battleships or submarines to protect Portland Harbor. Threatened by development, the Peaks Island community formed the Peaks Island Land Preserve to purchase the property to conserve as open space. Today this reminder of the past provides sweeping ocean views (the Battery has no water access). The path from Seashore Ave. passes through a marsh and pond area lush with vegetation and teaming with wildlife, or the site can be accessed from the dirt Brackett Ave. where on-street parking may be available. Foot or bike access is recommended.

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Highlights of this preserve include:

·   Battery Steele, part of a 14-acre preserve, is comprised of red maple swamp, cattail marsh, early successional woods, northern hardwoods, and more.

·   Several notable wildlife is found here. The Alder Thicket on the property functions as a vernal pool where wood frog tadpoles and gray tree frogs can be found.

·   This area is a favorite spot for bird watching; there are an many opportunities to observe a wide variety of species. Many of these species are noted in the PILP Backshore Bird blog which shares bird sightings seen along the Peaks Island shore, including the Battery Steel property.

·   This is one of the most visited and popular areas of the Peaks Island Land Preserve. A PILP steward is available weekends to inform visitors of the history and areas of interest.