As we move into April, signs of spring are starting to show across Wells. Snow piles have all but disappeared, days are getting longer, and warmer temperatures are on the way- slowly but surely. With the change in seasons comes a busy time for many Town departments, from the Assessing Department conducting annual property reviews to the ongoing municipal budget process and Wells Parks & Recreation gearing up for spring programs and summer hiring. Meanwhile around Town, restoration work begins at Goodwin Marsh, a low-cost rabies clinic for pet owners is scheduled, and the annual Beach Clean Up is right around the corner.

Read on for updates on town programs, upcoming events, and ways to get involved in the Wells community. As always, we appreciate your continued interest in what’s happening around town.

The Town of Wells is hiring for a variety of seasonal and full-time positions. Current openings include:

• Day Camp Counselors for Grades 1-6
• Camp Counselors for Junior Leadership
• Seasonal Waterfront Harbor Assistant
• Wells Ocean Rescue - Seasonal Lifeguards

We encourage you to take a look at the job opportunities currently available with the Town of Wells on our Employment Opportunities page. There is so much important work that goes in to keeping the town running, often behind the scenes and we invite you to be a part of it!

The arrival of Spring for the Finance and Tax Collection Office brings with it the due date for the second installment of 2026 taxes and continued sale of 2026 Multi-Use Permits.

Second Installment of 2026 Tax Bills

The second installment of 2026 tax bills came due on Sunday, March 15, 2026. Taxpayers have until Wednesday, April 29th to pay the second half of the tax bill before interest begins to accrue. Interest on unpaid first installment balances started on October 31st. All payments are posted to the oldest outstanding balance for a tax account. Payments are first applied to outstanding interest before applying to principal. The second installment reminder bill is expected to mail from the printer before the first week of April to all accounts that have a 2026 balance remaining. 

2026 Multi-Use Permit Sales

2026 Multi-Use Permits are currently available for purchase online, by mail or in person. A $50 Resident and Taxpayer Multi-Use Permit combines beach parking and transfer station access into one sticker. The permit is available to residents and taxpaying property owners that are current with property tax payments. 

• Residents must have a tax bill in their name or, if renting, provide a vehicle registration showing excise tax paid to Wells. 
• Each resident or taxpayer may purchase up to two permits per tax parcel for eligible vehicles. 
• A $5 off Veteran/Active-Duty Service Member Discount is available with proper documentation for registrations issued to the Veteran/Active-Duty Service Member.
• A standalone $5 Transfer Station Permit is also available for purchase. 
• Visit www.parkwellstown.com to order your permits online.  

The Town continues to move closer to finalizing the Fiscal Year 2027 Operating and Capital Budget. Throughout the months of February and March, the Budget Review Committee took time to carefully review all department operating and capital budget requests. Following Budget Committee review, the recommended budget was returned to the Select Board for further discussion, which took place at a Special Select Board Meeting, held on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.

A Budget Reconciliation meeting and joint public hearing with the Select Board and Budget Review Committee has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 8, 2026 to finalize the budget that will be presented to voters. At that meeting, the Budget Review Committee’s final recommendation on the Town Meeting Financial Warrant Articles will be recorded. A joint public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 Municipal Budget and Warrant Articles will take place following the reconciliation meeting, offering residents an opportunity to learn more and provide input before the budget moves forward for final approval at the June Town Meeting. After the public hearing is closed, the Budget Review Committee and the Board of Selectmen shall determine the final reconciled budget.

Select Board and Budget Review Committee meetings are open to the public and can be viewed in person at the Town Hall, on Cable TV via Channel 3, or online (live and archived for viewing anytime) at Town Hall Streams. The information provided in the budget book (budget schedule, backup information etc.) can be viewed on the Wells Budget Webpage.

• FY 27 Proposed Budget

Meeting Agendas and Minutes

• All Meeting Agendas and Minutes can be found on our website.

Spring Preparations

The month of March finally brought warmer weather and the first signs of spring to Wells. With these warmer temperatures, the snow that had been covering the ground for some time melted quickly. With temperatures approaching 80°F on March 10, the snow melt occurred rapidly and signaled the transition into spring and the warmer months ahead.

In April and May, Public Works crews will begin preparing our beaches for the upcoming season. This work includes preparing beach mats, stairs, and ramps for installation, ensuring public access points are open and accessible for all visitors, and replacing worn or damaged signage.

Winter Recap

This past winter was a very active season for Public Works crews, with staff responding to 26 plowable weather events between November 2025 and March 2026. It has been several years since we experienced a winter with both prolonged periods of extreme cold and significant snowfall. Public Works crews were finally able to get some relief from the winter weather in March and are now turning their focus toward spring operations.

The long and active winter was also tough on our roads. As the ground began to thaw this spring, numerous frost heaves developed across our road network. Public Works crews monitored these locations closely and made temporary repairs where possible to maintain safe travel conditions. Because the ground remains soft during the spring thaw, many of these repairs are temporary until conditions allow for more permanent repairs once asphalt plants reopen and paving season begins.

Construction begins on restoration work for Goodwin Marsh at Drakes Island

Work on the Drakes Island Road Bridge replacement project continues to move forward, with recent activity at the adjacent marsh. On March 23, 2026, construction began on restoration work within Goodwin Marsh. This effort is being carried out by the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve at Laudholm as part of a larger project focused on improving tidal flow and supporting the long term health of the marsh.

Photo Courtesy of Wells Reserve

According to Wells Reserve, an objective of the marsh portion of the project includes enhancing "marsh surface hydrology through small scale modifications (i.e. runnels, remediated ditches) to improve drainage, encourage revegetation of oversaturated marsh soils, and stop the spread of invasive phragmites." The marsh restoration is part of a larger project developed in partnership with the Town of Wells, the Wells Reserve, and the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. The project received federal funding, awarded in 2024, through the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, with the goal of protecting coastal habitat and improving resilience to sea level rise.

Additional Resources

• Goodwin Marsh Design Report
• Goodwin Marsh Monitoring Plan
• Wells Reserve Goodwin Marsh Update
• Drakes Island Road Bridge Replacement Project

The Drakes Island Road Bridge, originally constructed in 1938, is nearing the end of its useful life and requires replacement. The bridge serves as the only roadway access to Drakes Island, making it critical for residents, visitors, and emergency response. Replacement of the bridge will allow the increased tidal flow to reach a wider area of the marsh, and over time, will lead to the expansion of the marsh into the nearby upland and freshwater wetland areas.

Planning and design work for the bridge replacement is ongoing. Current efforts include engineering design, permitting, and coordination with project partners. A public meeting is anticipated in 2026 to present the final design and provide additional details on construction.

Construction of the new bridge is currently expected to begin in winter 2026/2027.

Additional updates will be shared as the project progresses.

Join the Wells community for the annual beach clean up on April 18th

Save the Date for the annual Wells Beach Clean Up! Join us on Saturday, April 18th, starting at 10 am, as we come together to keep our coastline safe and beautiful for all to enjoy. Last year, we had over 400 RSVPs and collected 880 pounds of trash from Wells Beach and Wells Harbor and 5,770 pounds of trash and debris from Drakes Island!

This year, we invite you to meet at Wells High School, 200 Sanford Road, at 10 am to gather supplies and enjoy complimentary donuts, courtesy of Congdon's Doughnuts. Participants will then break into groups and disperse to Wells Harbor, Wells Beach and Drakes Island Beach for the clean up. To RSVP, please email Saundra at beachcleanup@yahoo.com with your name and the number of people in your group that will be attending.

We hope you can join our efforts to protect the health of our beaches, ocean, and wildlife, and let's see if we can break last year's record numbers!

Wells Dispatcher, Saundra Skoczen, is a dedicated member of the Wells community, both through her work in public safety as a dispatcher and her commitment in leading the Town's biggest community clean up event each year.

Saundra has organized the Town of Wells annual Beach Clean Up since 2017, which now has participation from more than 500 volunteers each year and removes thousands of pounds of trash from local beaches and the Harbor. “I knew the first time I ever saw the ocean that I would live near it one day,” says Saundra, who is originally from Colorado. Saundra previously worked as a 911 dispatcher for 17 years with the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office before relocating to Maine. After significant life changes, she made the decision to move to the coast, something she had always planned to do. She was hired by the Wells Police Department shortly after arriving in Maine and has now been with the department for 18 years. Saundra mentions that her love of the ocean brought her to the coastline of Maine, stating, "my blood runs saltwater and I absolutely wanted to do something to give back to the ocean that I love so much."

The Start of the Clean Up Efforts

Saundra launched the beach clean up initiative in 2017 with support from Wells Police Chief Putnam. The first year's clean up had approximately 300 volunteers, who collected 400 pounds of trash. To date, six Beach Clean Ups have been held, with a total of 13,575 pounds of trash cleared from the beaches! The 2026 clean up will mark the 7th clean up held in Wells, all of which are led by Saundra.

Reflecting on the clean up, Saundra mentions that there are a lot of moving parts to the clean up that have to be organized that most probably don’t realize. She begins organizing it in January every year in order to have everything planned for Earth Day. According to Saundra, the clean up is always planned for the weekend before or after Earth Day, depending on the tide charts, "as a celebration to Earth Day, to our environment and most of all for the love of our ocean."

A Rewarding and Humbling Experience

Organizing the clean up is meaningful for Saundra, who says, "to know that we have collected that much trash and are keeping it out of the ocean and keeping marine life safe is incredibly rewarding to a Colorado girl who has a full-blown Maine soul." She is "floored" by the number of people that attend this annual event who travel from as far as way as Vermont, New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts just to participate. There are now over 500 participants each year. 

"It is truly the people showing up for this event that is making it such a success!" says Saundra. "It is a lot of work, putting it together, but every year when that meeting begins, I’m almost always brought to tears at how amazing the participants are. I feel incredibly humbled. I have to take a deep breath and go into dispatcher mode so that I don’t cry."

As she looks ahead to retirement in the coming years, Saundra hopes the clean up continues to grow and will eventually be her legacy. "My hope is to achieve a goal of 25,000 to 30,000 pounds of trash removed by the time I retire and that the Beach Clean Ups continue well beyond my years of service and my life."   

The Town of Wells is sincerely grateful for Saundra’s ongoing commitment to this effort and to the community that she loves so much!

As the weather warms up, many Wells residents begin outdoor projects like planting, installing fences, or upgrading walkways and patios. Before starting any digging project, the Town of Wells Code Enforcement Office reminds residents to contact Dig Safe to locate underground utilities.

Even small projects can pose a risk. Underground utilities, including gas lines, electrical service, water, and communications infrastructure may be buried just inches below the surface. Striking one of these lines can cause injuries, power and service outages in your neighborhood, as well as significant repairs. It can also delay your project and require emergency response in certain situations.

State law requires homeowners and contractors to notify Dig Safe before digging, even on private property.

Primary elections are held to determine which candidates will run in an upcoming general election. On June 9th, 2026, voters will decide who they want to appear on the November 2026 General Election ballot. Candidates included in this Primary are for the offices of US Senator, Representatives to Congress, Maine Governor, Maine State Senators and Representatives.

There are two important components to be aware of during the Primary: The first is regarding a voter’s political party enrollment. 

Maine currently has four qualified parties that may participate in Primary Elections:

• Democratic
• Green Independent
• Libertarian
• Republican



Please note that although some unenrolled candidates choose to designate themselves as “independent,” there is no official “Independent” party in Maine. A registered voter who has chosen to remain unenrolled in a political party may participate in a party’s primary election without enrolling in that political party. An unenrolled voter may choose one party’s primary ballot the day of the election. A voter registered to a specific party may only vote that party’s primary ballot, provided the party has a candidate in the race.

Wells Voting Districts 145 and 146

The second item to be aware of is what district a voter lives in. Wells has two districts in the Maine House of Representatives: District 145 and District 146. 

• Most of Wells is covered by District 145. 
• A small portion of the town is in District 146, mainly the southern/coastal portion of Wells, areas adjacent to Ogunquit and bordering on the Atlantic Ocean. 
• The candidates on your ballot will only be the ones representing your district. 



Because each district will be receiving a different ballot for these candidates, there will be a separate check-in table for District 146 at the polls. The setup will include the usual 3 tables, with the alphabet split up for District 145 voters, and just 1 table for all District 146 voters. Volunteers will be available to help if you are not sure which district you live in. 

As always, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 207-646-2882, or by stopping in, if you have any questions or would like to check your voting status.

It is a busy time of year for us and we are looking forward to seeing the weather warm up as well as new and familiar faces!

The Statutory Assessment Date in Maine is April 1st. This is when we will be assessing all real and personal property, including units that reside in campgrounds. Being a Wells taxpayer does have its perks; aside from getting to enjoy our wonderful town, you are also eligible for Multi-Use Beach Parking Permits! These permits not only include parking at the beach but the ability to use the transfer station as well.

To verify that you are eligible, and if you have recently purchased a unit that was in a campground on April 1st, please ensure our office has received the bill of sale to transfer the ownership. You can mail these to us, drop them off at our office, or email them to jhorta@wellstown.org. Your bill of sale should include information such as the seller’s and owner’s names, mailing addresses, the unit’s year, make, model, VIN, sale price, date of sale, and signatures from both parties involved.

If you have any questions regarding this, please call our office at 207-646-6081 and we will be happy to help!

Wells gives a warm welcome to new Patrol Officer

Please join us in welcoming Officer Jillian Plummer, a recently hired Town of Wells staff member. Jillian has been serving in her role as Patrol Officer since November 2025. We are confident her skills will prove to be an asset to the Police Department and that she will be a wonderful addition to our team.

As the weather warms and daylight stretches a bit longer, we are excited to share a lineup of spring and summer programs designed to bring families together, spark creativity, and get kids engaged in healthy outdoor fun. Jump into spring with one of our active and engaging programs!

Registration is now open for: 

• Kickball 
• Tennis (youth and adult) 
• Lacrosse  
• Archery 
• Track & Field 

Whether your child is trying something new or developing existing skills, there’s something for everyone this season. 

Don't miss the annual Egg Hunt on April 4

"Here comes Peter Cottontail, hoppin’ down the bunny trail…" and straight to the Rec Park!

Join us for our much-loved Annual Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 4th at 11:00 AM, where children can explore the park in search of colorful eggs the Easter Bunny left behind. Be sure to say hello and snap a photo with our furry friend! 

Please remember to bring an Easter basket or bag. Some lucky eggs will include special prize notes; trade them in at the prize table for extra surprises! Although this event is free, registration is required. Please be sure to complete the checkout process to secure your child’s spot and register the child who will be participating. Each age group will have its own meeting location, so doublecheck your group’s starting point before arrival.

Summer Day Camp Upcoming Registration Dates

Get ready for a summer filled with adventure, new friends, and unforgettable memories! Campers will spend their days exploring trails, playing field games, cooling off in the sprinklers, and enjoying a wide variety of activities including arts & crafts, music, nature exploration, individual sports, and more. 

Now Hiring: Summer Camp Staff 

Do you know someone who loves working with kids, enjoys the outdoors, and wants to make a positive impact in the community? We’re now hiring Summer Day Camp Staff for the 2026 season!  This is a great opportunity for energetic, responsible individuals who want to build leadership skills, gain hands-on experience, and spend the summer creating memorable experiences for local youth.  If you or someone you know is interested, we encourage early applications. Training and program support are provided. 

Low-Cost Rabies Clinic to benefit Vet Tech Club - April 12th at YCCC

What's coming up at Wells Public Library this April?

Wells Public Library now requires a PIN for online account access

As of March 17th, Wells Public Library patrons are now using a new login process for their online library accounts. A 4-digit PIN will be required along with your library card number to place holds, manage checkouts, and access your account. This update is part of a Minerva system-wide change to improve account security and prepare for future software upgrades.

If you have not yet created a PIN, you can do so by selecting “Create/Reset PIN” on the My Library Account login page at minerva.maine.edu. An email address is required to set up your PIN online.

If you do not have an email address, library staff at Wells Public Library can assist you in person by adding a 4-digit PIN of your choice to your account.

• Library staff cannot view or retrieve your PIN once it is set.
• If you forget it, it will need to be reset.
• A PIN is not required at this time to access databases or eBooks.

Questions? Contact Wells Public Library at 207-646-8181 or stop by the circulation desk.

Wells firefighter presents independent research at New England FOOLS Summit

On March 13, Wells Professional Firefighter Sean Connell represented the department at the New England FOOLS (Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society) Northeastern Fire Summit, speaking to more than 200 firefighters from across the region.

Independent Research Process

Connell’s research and presentation, “Under The Helmet,” started as a question he had: “Is there a correlation between firefighters and athletes?” As a fire instructor in York County, he observed that he often refers to athletes and military members when trying to convey concepts to new firefighters. That question led him to further research. “This project was 100% my own research and I was fortunate to network with many athletes, military members and firefighters across the nation,” Connell says. He developed a questionnaire and reached out to individuals who met specific criteria, including professional athletes, special forces military members, and other firefighters.

Their responses helped highlight four specific areas of correlation: routines, visualization training, stress management, and discipline. Connell spoke with professional hockey players, baseball players, and a UFC fighter, noting that their answers were nearly identical to those provided by firefighters.

Presenting the Research at the Annual FOOLS Summit

The New England FOOLS is a group of firefighters across New England who gather for conferences, training, and to assist whenever needed. The Northeastern Fire Summit is hosted in Wells each March, and Connell was invited to present this year. “I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to present with a lineup of firefighters I look up to,” he said. “While being nervous to speak in front of 200+ peers, it was also the perfect group to present to.”

Connell says the research reinforced how he approaches the job. “While we don’t respond to a house fire every day, every day carries the potential for that type of emergency. Because of that, we must remain both mentally and physically prepared should the need arise.”

Connell comes from a fourth-generation firefighter family, and his oldest son is now pursuing the same path as a fifth generation. He noted the importance of upholding the values of readiness and preparedness for any emergency. The Town of Wells is proud to have firefighters like Connell serving the community and continuing to build on the department’s commitment to training and professionalism.

State of Maine saltwater fishing registration information

Who must register to Saltwater Recreational Fish in Maine?

A person is required to Register with the state of Maine annually in order to engage in recreational saltwater fishing unless that person meets one of the following exemptions. Proof of being Registered or documentation of exemption of the Registry requirement must be carried at all times while recreational saltwater fishing or transporting caught fish.

Registration Exemptions

You are exempt from Registering if:

• You are under 16 years of age.
• You hold a valid Maine freshwater fishing license (not a Lifetime License*) and you indicated on your license whether or not you engaged in saltwater recreational fishing during the prior year.
• You hold a valid ME Commercial fishing license and you have indicated on that license whether or not you engaged in saltwater recreational fishing during the prior year.
• You are a Maine resident and are recreational saltwater fishing only on Memorial Day weekend, July 4th or Labor Day weekend.
• You are a member of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, the Penobscot Nation, the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians or the Aroostook Band of Micmacs.
• You are fishing as a passenger on a for-hire vessel (charter or head/party boat) captained by an individual who possesses a valid recreational saltwater fishing Operator's License.
• You are registered/licensed to engage in saltwater recreational fishing in another state, or with the National Registry.

*If your Maine freshwater fishing license is a Lifetime License, then you are not covered by that license for saltwater recreational fishing in Maine. You will need to check to see if you qualify for any other of the exemptions, above, and if you do not, then you are required to annually Register for recreational saltwater fishing.

You can register for Saltwater Fishing in person at the Clerks Office at Wells Town Hall for a cost of $2.00

After a record 2025 season, Wells Beach prepares for returning shorebirds

Wells Beach had a successful year for nesting birds in 2025, with record numbers of Piping Plovers and a strong season for Least Terns. 23 pairs of Piping Plovers nested on Wells Beaches and successfully fledged 45 chicks, an increase from the previous year. Least Terns also had a successful season, with around 80 adults producing 90 chicks. This is the highest total number of least terns at any beach in Maine.

Wells continues to work with federal, state, and Audubon partners to keep beaches open while protecting important nesting areas. Wells relies on its dedicated team of volunteers who help monitor the beaches, identify nests, and talk with beachgoers, educating them on these endangered birds.

Plovers Annual Arrival to Maine

As the birds begin returning again this spring, you may start to notice more bird activity on Wells Beach, Drakes Island, and Moody Beach. Piping Plovers winter as far south as the Bahamas and the West Indies up to North Carolina. They arrive in Maine to breed in mid-March. Male Piping Plovers begin by making “scrapes” in the sand. Then the female chooses a scrape and lays one egg every day or so, beginning incubation after a fourth egg is laid.

Plover Facts to Keep in Mind

• Piping Plovers and Least Terns nest directly on the sand, and their eggs and chicks are so well camouflaged that they can be nearly impossible to see.
• If you notice a bird acting injured, especially dragging a wing, it is porbably not hurt. This "broken wing display" is a distraction meant to draw attention away from a nearby nest.
• Plover chicks rely on freezing to avoid danger, which can sometimes make them look injured. It is always best to give them space and avoid handling them.
• Chicks move up and down the beach as they search for food and are not always within posted nesting areas.

Wells Piping Plover Program Volunteer and Training Information

Volunteer monitors are needed again this season to help continue the success that Wells has seen in recent years. Monitoring involves walking the beach, tracking birds, and helping educate others about how to protect them.

The annual Piping Plover Monitor Training will take place on Monday, April 13 at 6:00 pm at the Wells Public Library. Maine Audubon, Wells Animal Control, and the Piping Plover Coordinator will be there to prepare new and returning volunteers for the season. If you enjoy being on the beach and want to be part of important protection efforts, this is a great way to get involved.

• Easily apply to become a Plover volunteer today by filling out our Volunteer Application.

April is National Volunteers Month! Discover ways to give back to Wells

Volunteers are a vital and essential part of the Town of Wells community. If you would like to volunteer for a day, evening, year round or seasonally, we have vacancies available. From helping with community events to serving on advisory boards, Wells residents have multiple opportunities throughout the year to get involved and support recreational and municipal initiatives that benefit the Town. There are countless ways to give back, share professional skills, meet new people, or support local programs. Volunteers span a wide range of demographics, from retirees to students to seasonal residents, and everyone in between!

Why Volunteer?

Research shows that volunteering can offer personal benefits such as increased social connection, improved mental health, and a stronger sense of purpose. Many Wells volunteers also share feedback that they gain new skills and professional experience while strengthening their connection to the community.

Current Board and Committee Openings



Residents interested in civic engagement and local decision making may consider applying for the current openings on our Board of Assessment Review, Budget Review Committee, Comprehensive Plan Update Committee, Conservation Commission, Energy Advisory Committee, Founders Park Community Center Committee or Lodging Facility Advisory Committee. These roles allow volunteers to contribute directly to town projects, planning efforts, and municipal operations.

• Learn more about each Board and Committee here.

Ongoing Volunteer Programs

For residents who prefer hands on or event-based opportunities, the Town also offers a variety of ongoing programs, including:

• Cable TV Studio Equipment Operators, who assist with live streaming municipal meetings
• Friends of the Library, who support funding for the Wells Public Library
• Piping Plover monitors, who help protect nesting shorebirds
• Recreation Department program volunteers, who serve as referees, coaches and event support
• Station Hosts at the Wells Transportation Center, who assist all those who use Amtrak transportation services
• Wells Events staff volunteers supporting events such as HarborFest, the Memorial Day Parade, and the Holiday Tree Lighting
• Wells Road Rangers, who help keep roadsides clear of litter

Those interested in volunteering can learn more about available opportunities and how to apply by visiting our website, or by contacting us at rkelley@wellstown.org or 207-361-8130. Opportunities are updated regularly as community needs change and grow.

Memorial Day Parade plans underway; Veterans welcome

We invite you to join the Town of Wells for the 2026 Memorial Day Parade, to take place on Monday, May 25th at 9 am, as we honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country and our freedoms, and all who serve, past and present. The parade will begin at Wells High School, located at 200 Sanford Road, continue east on Sanford Road to Route 1, and continue south to Ocean View Cemetery, where a brief ceremony will be held.

We invite all veterans and active military service members to participate in the 2026 Wells Memorial Day Parade. RSVPs are recommended but not required. We invite all those interested in participating to meet at 8:30 am at the Wells High School Parking Lot.

Please contact Rebekah Kelley at 207-361-8130 or by email with questions or to reserve your spot.

Community Partners: Wells Ogunquit Senior Center Annual Tea Social

The Wells Ogunquit Senior Center is hosting their Annual Tea Social on Friday, April 17 from 1pm to 3 pm.

Tickets are $20 each, and space is limited, with only 80 tickets sold. If you are feeling festive, wear a fancy hat or fascinator for a chance to be entered into a special drawing. Raffle tickets for gift cards and other prizes will also be available at the front desk.

The event will be held at the Senior Center, 300 Post Road.

For more information or to reserve tickets, call (207) 646-7775.

April 2026 Public Programs at Wells Reserve at Laudholm

Wednesday, April 1, 10:30am-12pm

Wednesday Walk.

Join Norma Fox, certified interpretive guide and Wells Reserve docent and ranger, for a series of walks designed to help you get outside and find respite, creativity, and wonder in nature throughout the changing seasons. Wednesday walks run bi-weekly through April. A variety of trails and topics will be incorporated, so repeat participation is most welcome. This walk is geared towards adults, but ages 12 and older are welcome. Free. Preregistration required at caryn@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x110. Learn more at wellsreserve.org/calendar.

Thursday, April 2, 12-1pm

Spring Into Action: Become a Volunteer!

Join Wells Reserve staff and volunteers for a virtual conversation and find out how you can make a difference. We are grateful for our volunteers! Studies show that volunteering improves mental health and physical health. The Wells Reserve offers many volunteer opportunities that will keep you moving, thinking, and learning. Won't you join us? This is an online program. To register, visit wellsreserve.org/calendar. Contact Lynne Benoit at lbenoit@wellsnerr.org or call 207-646-1555 extension 118 with questions.

Friday, April 3, 9am-3pm

Forest-based Education Workshop.

Through this workshop, geared toward educators, discover how forests can serve as a teaching tool across a variety of subjects, opening new ways to understand and explore the outdoors. This program will include training in Project Learning Tree (PLT), a curriculum to "teach students how to think, not what to think and Forest Ecology Research Network (FERN), an experiential, field-based program that combines place-based environmental education with standard forest data-collection protocols. Free. Preregistration required at mainetree.org/events. 

Saturday, April 4, 10am-12pm

Forests of Lilliput: The Miniature World of Lichens & Mosses

Maine Master Naturalist Jeff Pengel will lead us in an exploration of lichens, mosses, and similar plants. While these organisms often go unnoticed, they occur in surprising abundance, especially in Maine. We'll examine the basics of their lifecycles and structure, introducing some vocabulary along the way. Bring a hand lens if you have one, otherwise we’ll provide one to use. $13/$10. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116.

Wednesday, April 15, 6:30-8:30pm

Film Screening: Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong

Join us in Mather Auditorium for a screening and discussion of 2025 Camden Film Festival Audience Award winner Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong. Half a century after the Clean Water Act radically improved how we handle our sewage, our once modern facilities have aged beyond their intended lifespans. This film follows the day-to-day operations of one wastewater facility that can’t afford to ever shut down and the funny, close-knit, and inventive individuals working to keep it all running. Unless Something Goes Terribly Wrong is a buddy comedy about poop and the thankless pursuit of making a better world. Nick Rico, superintendent of Wells Sanitary District, will join us for a discussion following the screening. $7/$5. Tickets available at wellsreserve.org/calendar.

Thursday, April 16, 10:30am-12:30pm

Signs of the Seasons Community Science Training

Are you in tune with nature? Do you notice when the red maple flowers burst in the spring, when monarch caterpillars begin to munch on milkweed in late summer, or when the first leaves appear on the ground in autumn? Join us at our Signs of the Seasons Community Science Workshop and learn how to turn your nature observations into valuable data used by scientists to document seasonal and long-term change. Signs of the Seasons, is a Maine Sea Grant community science program that trains volunteers to observe and record phenology (seasonal changes) in plants and animals. Participants will learn about the why and how-to of collecting phenology data, practice making observations, and leave with the tools and knowledge to document changes in their own backyard or community. This workshop will include a presentation as well as hands-on learning with plant specimens. While the majority of this in-person workshop will take place inside, please come prepared to spend some time outside making observations. Free.

Friday, April 17, 7-8:30pm

Woodcock Watch.

Maine Master Naturalist and woodcock enthusiast Paul Dest leads this walk in search of the famed timberdoodle. Paul is well-versed in the woodcock’s life history, conservation status, and management, and is an engaging presenter. In early spring, just before dawn or just after sunset, landscapes of field and young forest come alive with the unique sounds of the American woodcock. This migratory bird is a sure sign of spring, but is not so obvious as the robin or the red-winged blackbird. We’ll walk about a mile, including one small hill. $10/$8. Registration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116.

Wednesday, April 22, 10am-2pm

Earth Day Celebration.

Join us at the Wells Reserve for a community Earth Day celebration! Start the day off with a beach clean-up on Laudholm Beach. Back on campus, enjoy nature crafts, seed-planting, and a special Within the Whale experience. This event is free with site admission. Preregistration is not required. Learn more at wellsreserve.org/calendar.

10am-12pm: Beach Clean-Up. We will meet at the gazebo to walk to Laudholm Beach as a group.

12pm-2pm: Engaging Earth Activities. Pollinator Scavenger Hunt, Seed Planting with Maine Master Gardeners, Leaf Printing, Earth Pledges

1-2pm: Within the Whale. Step inside one of the ocean’s most important animals! Within the Whale is an immersive experience offering participants the chance to explore the inside of a life-size inflatable humpback whale and discover how whales support healthy oceans and a thriving planet.

Thursday, April 23, 12-1pm

French Conversation Trail Walk.

Parlez-vous francais? Come practice your French while enjoying the great outdoors! This is an informal gathering of French language enthusiasts who are eager to improve their speaking skills by practicing with others. Let’s explore the beauty of the Reserve together while using the French language to connect. All levels are welcome. Pre-registration is not required. Free with admission. For more information, please contact suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116.

Monday, April 27, 12-1pm

Lunch & Learn: Bobcats in the 'Burbs:’ How Human Development and Activity in New England Alters Activity of an Elusive Carnivore.

The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is a solitary and elusive figure of the New England woods. Despite increased habitat loss and habitat fragmentation due to human development, bobcat populations have remained stable across much of the region. In this talk, Mairi Poisson will discuss the intriguing natural history of the bobcat in New England, how bobcats have adjusted to increased human presence on the landscape, and what that means for other native species. Mairi Poisson is currently a PhD candidate at the University of New Hampshire in the Wildlife Modeling and Management Lab. Preregistration is not required. Suggested donation: $5/person. Presented in Mather Auditorium.

Saturday, May 2 (with rain date of May 3), 7-10am

Birding by Ear.

Expert bird mimic Dan Gardoqui will help you connect with birds you can't see by getting to know their songs and calls (as well as what they're saying). In this program, we'll do a little exploring on foot, but a lot more listening with our ears. Dan can help you learn the calls by mimicking them for the group as you hear and see the actual birds in the field. If you're experienced with visual bird identification, this course will be a good next step in building your birding skills. All are welcome. The Wells Reserve is co-hosting this program with partner York County Audubon, with members of either organization (and Maine Audubon) receiving the discounted program pricing. Cost is $40 for non-members and $32 for members. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116.

Contacts: 

Rachel McDonald

rachel@laudholm.org, 207-646-4521 ext 143

Suzanne Kahn 

suzanne@wellsnerr.org, 207-646-1555 ext 116 

Wells Beach Alerts: Be Prepared and Stay Informed

Text WELLS to 226787 for Wells Beach Alerts, including weather conditions, rip currents and emergency announcements.

The service is free to use, though standard messaging rates may apply.

Users can opt out at any time by texting LEAVE. Visitors are reminded to dial 9-1-1 for emergencies as this text service is not monitored.

Apply today to join our team!

The Town of Wells has several open employment opportunities.

We encourage you to take a look at the job opportunities currently available with the Town of Wells on our Employment Opportunities page. There is so much important work that goes in to keeping the town running, often behind the scenes.

Current Opportunities:

• Day Camp Counselors for Grades 1-6
• Camp Counselors for Junior Leadership
• Seasonal Waterfront Harbor Assistant
• Police Department Seasonal Openings
• Wells Ocean Rescue - Seasonal Lifeguards

If nothing is a great fit for you, consider passing the listings along to friends and family who might be looking for a satisfying and important career.

Town staff and the the Board of Selectmen are supported by the efforts of the many volunteers who make up our resident-led boards and committees. These committees advance the work on present issues in Wells and do the research and preparation before bringing it to the board.

If you want to be more involved in your community, having a role in local government activities is a great way to start. There are currently vacancies on the following boards/committees.

Board and Committee Vacancies

• Board of Assessment Review - 1 member vacancy, 2 alternate member vacancies
• Budget Review Committee- 2 alternate member vacancies
• Comprehensive Plan Update Committee- 2 member vacancies
• Conservation Commission- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Energy Advisory Committee- 3 member vacancies, 3 alternate member vacancies
• Founders Park Community Center Committee- 1 member vacancy
• Lodging Facility Advisory Committee- 2 member vacancies

Learn more about each Board and Committee here.

Sign up for the RAVE Alert System for York County to ensure you receive emergency alerts.

​The RAVE Alert System is a reverse 911 application that allows citizens to sign up for emergency alerts. The program allows users to create a profile to alert first responders to their specific needs as well. For example, if there was an evacuation, the program would let first responders know if a user needed evacuation assistance through their profile. The profiles allow users to mark if they need specialized assistance, are dependent on electric supply, or even if they have pets or livestock.

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Examples of alerts include: winter storm notices, evacuation notices, flood alerts, bio-terrorism alerts, and boil water notices.

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Click here to Sign Up for RAVE Alerts.

We are always looking for ways to improve communication with our community members.

As always, if there is anything we can do to better communicate information, please let us know by emailing rkelley@wellstown.org.

Be sure to check out our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages using the buttons below. You can also see news and updates on the Town of Wells website at www.wellstown.org.