Happy Summer to the Town of Wells! The warmest time of the year brings something for everyone to enjoy, from the kick-off of the Summer Harbor Concert Series, to reading programs, to the opening of the Shellfish Lab, to our 11th Annual HarborFest. Read on for updates and details on the many exciting opportunities throughout the Town of Wells.

Holiday Reminders:

With 4th of July celebrations taking place this week, please be aware of the town ordinance surrounding fireworks:

• Pursuant to Chapter §115-4 of the Town of Wells Code adopted 12-20-2011, to include legislation through 06-14-22, the use and sale of consumer fireworks is prohibited.

Friday, July 4th closures:

• Town Hall Offices
• Parks and Recreation Department
• Wells Public Library
• Wells Transfer Station

Wells HarborFest is back for its 11th year on Saturday, July 26th from 11 AM to 3 PM at Wells Harbor Community Park. As the Harbor’s biggest event of the year, HarborFest brings locals and visitors together for a day packed with live music, games, food, contests, and community fun.

The International Lobster Trap Toss is one of the most anticipated contests of the day, offering cash prizes and international bragging rights. For those with big appetites, Congdon’s Doughnuts will once again sponsor the highly anticipated Doughnut Eating Contest.

Common Ground Band will be providing live music and entertainment. Common Ground Band is a regional favorite known for their high-energy mix of classic rock, blues, and pop. There will also be a dance performance from Northern Explosions Dance Studio, plus family friendly activities like the Kids’ Crabbing Station, Kite Making, and Sand Art.

Food options will be plentiful. The Wells Rotary Club will be grilling up burgers, hot dogs, and more, and several food trucks will be on site with many delicious options. The Founders Park Community Center Committee will host a dunk tank to raise funds, with a lineup of familiar faces from town ready to take the plunge.

Other highlights include:

• Wells PD, Fire, and EMS demos
• Facepainting
• Games, giveaways, and more

Thank you to this year’s sponsors: GoNet Speed, Partner's Bank, Save Our Shores Maine, Webhannet River Bait & Tackle, Rotary Club of Wells, Congdon's Doughnuts, and more. Your support helps make HarborFest possible!

All activities are free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring their families and friends to this annual community tradition.

For more information about HarborFest or to inquire about volunteer and vendor opportunities, please contact Rebekah Kelley at rkelley@wellstown.org or by phone at (207) 361-8130.

With one of the slowest Springs in Wells Harbor history, last week’s forecast of sunny days and hot temperatures brought the people and boats out in full force the last few days. The harpoon Tuna Boats have had a good start to the season by heading to the South, in search of warmer water, while the rod and reel category has remained slow.

The Charter Boats are off to one of the slowest starts in memory as the baitfish have been nonexistent due to cold ocean temperatures. Striped Bass fishing has been very slow during the day, with only a few being caught at night. So far this year, there have been no reports of any landings from the Town dock.

The Shellfish Lab is open Thursday through Monday for the season. This year, Rachel Carr is the resident Marine Biologist. I know a lot of you are familiar with Olivia Hardy being on site, but this Summer, Oliva is busy working on her Master of Education as she pursues a teaching career back in her hometown.

The Harbormaster roster will remain the same as last year, with Jim and Dave working weekends with occasional appearances by Ian Sawyer and Chris Farley.

A special presentation on an update to the Route One Corridor Study was held during the June 3rd Select Board meeting. The project has now moved into the design phase, which can take up to a year.

Representatives from VHB and Maine DOT presented Phase 2 of the study, which focuses on proposed multi-use walkways along the corridor. The presentation was followed by a public input session, offering residents the chance to ask questions and share feedback.

• The June 3rd, 2025 Public Meeting can be viewed here.
• Route 1 Draft Connectivity Study Concept Plans Presentation
• Information about the Route 1 Corridor Study and proposed changes can be found here.

Ordinances Approved at the June 2025 Town Meeting:



• Revised Street Standards for new private streets or streets on which new lots are added: turnaround requirements, road widths and specifications.
• Hotel Seasonal Worker Housing: Allows a limited number of hotel units to be occupied seasonally by hotel employees that work on that property.
• Stormwater requirements for subdivisions: Updates to referenced manuals and an increase to analysis and design requirements to a 50-year storm event.
• Typographic error: Correct a reference from §115-6 to §116-6.

Ordinances Rejected at the June 2025 Town Meeting:

• The zoning change sponsored by JAR Cannabis to allow recreational marijuana retail sales failed.

Planning Board Updates: Continues to review various subdivision and site applications at their regularly scheduled meetings.

Comprehensive Plan Update Committee: The Board of Selectmen conducted a public hearing on June 3rd on the final updated plan. No public comments were made. The Board of Selectmen voted to place the plan on the November Town Meeting for voter determination.

• Read background information and additional details on the Comprehensive Plan here.

Eastern Trail:

The MDOT and Eastern Trail Alliance project to construct a portion of the Eastern Trail between Perry Oliver Road and North Berwick is moving forward. Information can be found on the Eastern Trail Alliance website.

This project is being managed by the Eastern Trail Alliance (ETA) and the Eastern Trail Management District (ETMD). Funding will require a combination of Federal/State, municipal, foundations and private sources. See below for a video presentation and additional information on the "Blaze the Trail South", the 11-mile segment from Kennebunk to North Berwick.

State Statute Changes:

Several new land use laws have been passed which could significantly affect local zoning and increase housing density and development.

Possible Ordinance Changes for November:

Accessory dwelling uses, Short Term Rental regulations and licensing, sidewalk requirements, road standards, affordable housing updates.

Tennis & Pickleball Courts Now Open for the Season

The newly updated tennis and pickleball courts at the Wells Parks & Recreation facility are open for member use. The courts are available daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, April through November (weather permitting), and includes six pickleball courts and two tennis courts.

• Membership is required to access the courts, and fees help support ongoing maintenance and improvements.
• Seasonal and monthly memberships can be purchased online.
• Weekly and daily memberships are available by phone or in person only.

A staff member will be available at The Hut from 7:30 to 10:30 AM, Monday through Friday, to assist with memberships and answer questions. Members will receive a unique PIN code for gate access upon registration.

For more information on memberships, court use guidelines, or to register, visit the Wells Parks & Recreation website or call the Office at (207) 646-5826.

Summer Reading is for all ages!

This year’s summer reading theme is Level Up! At Your Library, and there is a program for every age! Kids aged 3 to entering fourth grade will receive a bag with prizes and instructions on how to participate. They can earn a prize a week, too! Those entering fifth through twelfth grade can earn entries to win a weekly raffle bag, with a different theme each week. Every child and teen who registers will also be entered into raffles to win prizes from local vendors. Adults can earn entries for a weekly raffle bag of books, along with a few grand prizes as well. If you haven't signed up yet, head to wellslibrary.org to find sign-ups for kids, teens, and adults. 

Regular Children’s Programming for the summer has begun – see below. 

Wells Library’s First Trivia Night

Join us for a fun night of trivia! Kim will be hosting a trivia competition on Tuesday, July 15th at 5:30 p.m., complete with pizza and prizes! Compete as a team or by yourself - at the end of the night the team or individual with the most points will win a prize.

Pizza will be available from the beginning of the event, so come hungry for food… and to win! Registration is required (so we know how much pizza to order!) and can be done online through our event calendar. For more information, please contact Kim Swejkoski at kswejkoski@wellstown.org. 

Pet Show – Live at Scoop Deck!

Wednesday, July 16 at 5:30 p.m.

Bring your favorite pets to our annual Pet Show, now being held at Scoop Deck (6 Eldridge Rd.) on Wednesday, July 16 at 5:30 p.m.! All animals must be on a leash or in a cage, and all will receive individualized awards. Owners are invited to participate in outdoor games and enjoy ice cream. All ages (of people and pets) welcome.

BJ Hickman Magic Show

Thursday, July 24 at 5:30 p.m.

A Wells regular, Magician BJ Hickman always puts on a first-rate performance. He entertains with comedy magic including card tricks, audience participation and mind reading miracles. Don’t miss out! Appearing Thursday, July 24 at 5:30 p.m.

Birdwatching 101



Ready to take the first step into the world of birding? Join the York County Chapter of the Audubon Society for Birdwatching 101 on Tuesday, July 29 at 6 p.m. Learn how to identify common local birds, discover the best tools for birdwatching, and get tips on where to spot different species.

And don’t forget about our Friends of the Library Book Sale on Saturday, July 19th at 10:15 a.m.! 

Coastal sand dunes are fragile and dynamic resources that only comprise about two percent of Maine’s coastline. These dunes act as natural barriers that protect the shorelines from storm events that cause erosion. They also provide vital habitat for a variety of wildlife and have natural scenic beauty that is enjoyed by many. Overtime, sand dunes will grow, shrink, or move around as they are impacted by natural forces like storms or unnatural events like human interactions. 

Threats to dune vegetation

Though sand dunes can be damaged by severe storms, the greatest threat to dune vegetation comes from uncontrolled recreational use. Dune plants are specially evolved for the harsh conditions of coastal life, but these adaptations make them especially vulnerable to traffic. Frequent beach users, such as humans and dogs, can trample plants as they walk through them. This foot traffic leads to plant degradation and even death. Even light foot traffic can create “blowouts” that persist for years and leave the shoreline more vulnerable to erosion by wind and water.

Did you know that sand dunes are protected by the Department of Environmental Protection? By trespassing in a sand dune system, you could be violating Maine state law!

The best way to help preserve our dune systems are to stay clear of them. Always enter and exit the beach using only designated walkways and entrances. Call your pet away from the dunes before it enters them and make sure they are not defecating in them; do not let pets or kids play in the dune grass or sandy hills. Do not enter the dune system for any reason, including but not limited to: photography, metal detecting, pruning or removing plants, recreation or travel.

For more information regarding coastal sand dune rules and regulations, please visit www.Maine.gov.

Piping Plover Protection reminders heading into the holiday week

• Stay clear of fenced areas marked with “Restricted Area” signs. Observe the birds from a distance.
• If you see a hole that someone has enjoyed digging but abandoned for the day, fill the hole in so no chicks are inadvertently trapped.
• Keep dogs leashed and all pets far away from nesting areas. Roaming dogs and cats are among the top threats to the eggs of Plovers.
• Fly kites well away from nesting areas. Plovers mistake them for predators and leave their nests to ward off “intruders.”
• Take your trash and food scraps with you when you leave the beach for the day. Garbage attracts animals that prey on plover eggs and chicks.
• Notify Maine Audubon, at 207-245-2353, of any disturbances to nesting areas.

For more information on the Piping Plover species and how you can take part in helping protect and grow their endangered population, you can read the following article or visit Maine Audubon.

Happy Summer! Summer means beach days! We, as humans, get to use the beach to build sandcastles, sunbathe, play games, rest, and relax. Some animals also enjoy using the beach to do just that. While they may not be building sandcastles and playing games, they do enjoy resting, relaxing and sunbathing.

Wells Beach is lucky to be a safe place for adult and baby Harbor Seals and Gray Seals to rest before going back into the water to swim and hunt. These seals will haul themselves out of the water daily to rest and warm up, staying in one spot for multiple tide cycles if the rest is needed. Seals are not able to maintain their body temperature if they stay in cold water all the time, because they only have a thin layer of blubber, or fat, and a small body size.

You may come across a seal pup on the beach. It is most likely not abandoned and mom is likely feeding in the water nearby. Too much disturbance and human presence around the seal pup may cause mom to feel unsafe and abandon her baby. For this reason, we ask that if you see a seal on the beach, please keep your distance and don’t attempt to touch it or pick it up.

If you are concerned about a seal, or any animal, on the beach, please notify dispatch, 207-646-9354, so they can notify the appropriate authorities! Have a safe and fun summer! 

Have you ever stood on the sidewalk and felt uneasy as a car sped by, even if it wasn’t breaking the speed limit? That feeling isn’t just in your head. It's part of how our brains are wired to respond to motion and danger.

What Is Perception of Speed?

The perception of speed refers to how fast we think something is moving. It can be different from the actual speed measured by a speedometer or radar gun. In many cases, people perceive vehicles are going faster than they really are, especially in quiet or residential areas.

Why Do We Perceive Some Vehicles as Speeding?

There are a few key reasons:

1. Environmental Setting: A car driving at 30 mph on a narrow residential street feels faster than the same car at 30 mph on a wide highway. That’s because our brains compare the speed of the car to its surroundings.
2. Noise and Vibration: Loud engines, screeching tires, or vibrations can make a vehicle seem faster, and more threatening, than a quiet, smooth car.
3. Size and Proximity: Larger vehicles or ones that pass very close to pedestrians often feel more intimidating. A bus going 25 mph next to you can feel much faster than a small car at the same speed farther away.
4. Motion Blur and Visual Flow: Our eyes pick up movement through "optic flow," how fast objects move past us. Faster movement across our field of vision increases the perception of speed.

In Conclusion:

Perception isn’t always the same as reality, but it still matters. How fast a vehicle seems to be going can influence how safe people feel. By understanding this, we can all contribute to safer, more mindful streets, for drivers and non-drivers alike.

This year’s lifeguard team consists of 26 lifeguards including one highly trained and skilled Lead Captain as well as two Co-Captains and three Lieutenants that make up the leadership team. The rest of the team consists of well-trained and dedicated young men and women who will be watching the beaches this year. This is in stark contrast to last year, when only 19 lifeguards were overseeing approximately one and a half miles of beachfront including Drakes Island, Crescent and Webhannet beaches. 

USLA Distinction Sets Wells Apart

This year marks Wells’ second year of USLA Certification. USLA stands for United States Lifesaving Association, and is something Wells residents take tremendous pride in as one of only 3 ocean beaches in the whole state of Maine that holds this certification. Lifeguards are put through a rigorous application process including a timed run, and a timed swim that certainly pushes each of our lifeguards to their limits, ensuring they are well prepared for the rough waters they may encounter each year. In addition, they are put through two weeks of intense rescue and triage training in ocean waters using Wells rescue equipment like our jet ski or the rescue boards that are located at every Wells lifeguard stand. The USLA certification also ensures that each lifeguard is trained specifically for open water and ocean rescues which include dangerous riptide survival techniques, and other adverse weather conditions that could present themselves to patrons and guards alike. This elevates safety for Wells beach patrons. Most other beaches only train their guards in Red Cross waterfront or pool certifications which lack the conditions that ocean rescues will most likely encounter. Only York Beach and Ogunquit Beaches share this same honor with Wells, as the only other USLA certified lifeguards in all of Maine. 

New Asset to the Lifeguard Team

Wells Ocean Rescue Team has also hired a fully trained ocean rescue professional to give our lifeguards more support for the functions they carry out every day. Kris Kimball joins us from New Hampshire Marine Patrol and has extensive training in boating, water survival, big wave surf rescue, and watercraft rescue techniques among many more. This addition to the team has already proven very valuable, as he has been available much earlier than our other lifeguards that are typically tied to college until just before the season starts, limiting their ability to recruit, organize and prepare the team for the season. Kris has been pivotal in recruiting this year, increasing our staffing levels to our highest in at least five years. This is great news and will help spread out the time most of the guards will be working, minimizing burnout and unnecessary stress for the members. 

New Approach to Lifeguard Coverage in Wells

There will be a new approach in how two of the beaches will be monitored this year, which we believe will be much more efficient than in years prior. Crescent Beach and Webhannet Beach, though popular, tend to see less attendance compared to Wells Beach or Drake's Island. As a result, two lifeguard stands will be stationed at these areas, but they will rarely be occupied. Instead, the lifeguards at these beaches will adopt a roaming strategy, walking along the shoreline, constantly scanning for potential hazards or risks. This allows them to cover more ground and stay mobile, ensuring that they can quickly respond to emergencies, even in areas not directly near a stand. This approach, although new for this beach, is not new to Wells. In fact, for the last several years, our lifeguards roamed the beaches instead of holding watch on the stands, when visitors were not as plentiful for several weeks in June before school is out as well as later in September when most patrons have left for the year. 

The Wells Beach and Drakes Island Beach approach will consist of several stands to accommodate the majority of our lifeguards. This area will be staffed with up to two lifeguards per stand to maintain better vigilance for the multitudes of visitors each year that these busier beaches normally receive. Each lifeguard stand will be equipped with essential safety and rescue equipment including first aid supplies, a rescue board, torpedo floats and radios for communication between stands and our Wells Fire and EMS personnel. Each stand is located appropriately to ensure the best coverage possible along the beach front.

What Really is the Role of a Lifeguard?

The responsibilities of a lifeguard include much more than just rescue techniques in rough waters. It also includes handling minor injuries, which includes cuts, bruises and basic first aid for the public. They are trained in CPR in case a patron experiences a heart attack. A quick response to a heart attack victim has a significant positive outcome if caught quickly and CPR is established right away. Lifeguards also work closely with the Wells Fire Department, EMS and Wells Police when things go wrong on the beach. Lifeguards are the first line of defense but they must reach out to the local emergency services to coordinate and inform them of the nature of the injury or situation so emergency service personnel can respond appropriately and in a timely manner. Locating a specific individual incident on the beach can be daunting, as there are no addresses that help to guide those services, so the lifeguards call out the nearest stand or public way to help guide everyone on to the beach quickly and efficiently. Of course, water rescues are the pinnacle of lifeguard services, and our lifeguards are trained for those events. These can be frightening for patrons on the beach, and some might attempt a rescue which could hamper the efforts of the lifeguards so they must be prepared for anything.

As part of our lifeguards’ training and the services they provide, communication to the public is a daily occurrence with the use of flags to indicate dangers on the beach as well as weather conditions, riptides, water temperature, possible storms and the daily tide changes. These communications allow our lifeguards to connect with our beachgoers, which helps build a name and a reputation that Wells Lifeguards are friendly, efficient, knowledgeable and well trained.

So, with all this knowledge we hope that everyone can enjoy their summer at the beach taking in the rays, the warmth and the relief from the heat that the water can provide. We will be on the sand, looking out for everyone’s safety and we wish you all a safe and happy visit to Wells beaches.

Summer fire safety tips from the Wells Fire Department

Every year, Americans look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July. Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor grills. Annually, more than 8,000 Americans are injured by fireworks and grill fires. More than half these injuries occur during the first week of July.

USFA's National Fire Data Center estimates that yearly outside cooking grills cause more than 6,000 fires, over 5 fatalities, more than 170 injuries, and $35 million in property loss. Gas grills alone cause over 2,700 fires, 80 injuries, and $11 million dollars damage. Most of the gas grill fires and explosions were caused by gas leaks, blocked tubes, and overfilled propane tanks.

In addition to outdoor cooking, improper use of fireworks causes more than 6,000 fires and more than $8 million in damage.

Families also enjoy camping in the summer. It is important to follow the park's rules for the use and extinguishing of campfires.

Summertime should be a time for fun and making happy memories. Knowing a few fire safety tips and following instructions will help everyone have a safe summer.

The Town of Wells' beloved Summer Concert Series continues! The concerts are a free community event held every Saturday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Wells Harbor Park, located at 331 Harbor Road. This year’s concert series will run through August 30, 2025, offering residents and visitors eleven weeks of live music in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Concerts take place at the Hope Hobbs Gazebo, where attendees can enjoy performances with scenic harbor views. Bench seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and guests are encouraged to bring folding chairs or blankets. All parking at the venue is free. Please note that there will be no concert on July 19, as the Wells Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Pow Wow that weekend.

The full 2025 Summer Concert Series schedule is as follows:

• July 5- The Deep Blue C Studio Orchestra
• July 12- The Fossils
• July 19- No concert (Wells Chamber of Commerce Pow Wow)
• July 26- J.C. and the Elvis Experience
• August 2- The Reminisants
• August 9- Tru Diamond (Tribute to Neil Diamond)
• August 16- Club Soda Band
• August 23- New Legacy Swing Band
• August 30- The Party Starters

Whether you're a local resident or visiting the area, the Wells Summer Concert Series is the perfect way to enjoy a Saturday evening with family, friends, and great music by the water.

For more information, visit www.wellstown.org or contact Rebekah Kelley at rkelley@wellstown.org.

The 21st Annual Native American Pow Wow, hosted by the Wells Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by the New Hampshire Intertribal Native American Council, will bring a weekend of cultural celebration to Wells. The Pow Wow will take place on July 19th and 20th, at Wells Harbor Park.

The event features traditional music and dance, handmade crafts, demonstrations, and storytelling, offering visitors a chance to learn more about Native American history and culture in an engaging and respectful setting. All are welcome to attend!

For event details visit the Wells Chamber website.

July 2025 Public Programs

Wells Reserve at Laudholm 

Tuesday, July 1, 7-10am

Bird Banding Demonstration

Come visit our bird banding station! Weather permitting, find the bird banders just beyond the porch of the Coastal Ecology Center or under the large copper beech tree on campus ready to share their avian research with you. Learn about the data they record, and the fascinating natural history of the birds temporarily caught in the researchers’ mist nets. Banding will occur on Tuesday mornings (with the rain date of Wednesday) from June 3 – August 5. The most opportune time to visit the bird banding demonstration is between 7:30 and 9:30am. Free with site admission.

Tuesday, July 1-August 26 (no class July 29), 8-9:15am

Morning Yoga Series

Begin your day with a gentle Hatha yoga class designed to help increase strength, flexibility, endurance, focus, and concentration. These all-level classes are small enough so that personal attention can be given to each student, whether a beginner or more advanced. Please note, this is an 8-week Tuesday morning series (no class on July 29), held in-person in Mather Auditorium and online via Zoom. You will need your own yoga mat for class. $80/member and $96/non-member. Preregistration is required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x 116.

Tuesday, July 1, 10-11:30am

Saturday, July 12, 10-11:30am

Laudholm’s Farming Past

Delve into the stories of what these historic buildings were and are today! We will explore the rich history of this site, beginning in the 1640’s, from family home and farmland to National Estuarine Research Reserve. This docent-led walk offers the opportunity to tour buildings that are not regularly open to the public, such as the bull barn and garages, and learn the stories behind them. Free with site admission. Please reserve your space at caryn@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x110.

Thursday, July 3, 10am-12pm

Explore the Shore

Discover the secrets of the land, sea, and beach by exploring the shore! Though it isn't always obvious, the treasures we find on the beach can tell us stories about the land, the ocean and the beach itself. While strolling Laudholm Beach, we will explore the shore through questions about and investigations of sand, the wrack line, and other beach treasures. Program will start at the Gazebo with a quick introduction to tides before we head down the trail to the beach. Program duration is about 1 ½ - 2 hours and ends at the beach. Free with site admission. Please reserve your space at caryn@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x110.

Tuesday, July 8, 7-10am

Bird Banding Demonstration

Come visit our bird banding station! Weather permitting, find the bird banders just beyond the porch of the Coastal Ecology Center or under the large copper beech tree on campus ready to share their avian research with you. Learn about the data they record, and the fascinating natural history of the birds temporarily caught in the researchers’ mist nets. Banding will occur on Tuesday mornings (with the rain date of Wednesday) from June 3 – August 5. The most opportune time to visit the bird banding demonstration is between 7:30 and 9:30am. Free with site admission.

Tuesday, July 8, 10-11:30am

Secrets of the Salt Marsh

Learn all about this special ecosystem, nestled between the forest and seashore. Join us for a jaunt past meadows and forests down to our floating dock on the Little River. Here we will look out over the salt marsh and learn its secrets! This guided walk covers about 1 mile of fairly flat, slightly uneven trail terrain and is about 1 ½ hours in length. Free with site admission. Please reserve your space at caryn@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x110.

Tuesday, July 8, 3-5pm

Mindful Experience

Slow down and open yourself to the sights, sounds, and scents surrounding you on the Laudholm Campus of the Wells Reserve. With heightened awareness as our goal, we will practice slow and quiet walking, using our senses in different ways. This is a peaceful, guided experience which teaches mindful practices that can be applied at home. This program is geared towards adults, but is appropriate for ages 12 and up. $8/$6. Preregistration required at linda@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x128. Please note: Program fee does not include site admission fee. Learn more at wellsreserve.org/calendar.

Friday, July 11, 10:30am-1:30pm

Sunday, July 13, 12-3pm

Monday, July 14, 12:30-3:30pm

Friday, July 25, 10:30am-1:30pm

Kayaking on the Little River Estuary

Come explore where the river meets the sea—by kayak! Paddle the quiet waters of the Reserve’s estuary while watching for wildlife and learning about this treasured habitat. This is a relaxing paddling experience appropriate for all levels of kayaking ability. Minimum age is 12, and 12-15 year olds must be accompanied by an adult. Kayaks are single (not tandem), so each participant paddles their own kayak. Weather dependent. $70/$56. Preregistration required at wellsreserve.org/calendar. Please note: Program fee does not include site admission fee.

Saturday, July 12, 7:30-9:30am

Bird Walk

Join York County Audubon birders every other Saturday this summer, May 17-August 9, for a guided bird walk around the Reserve property. Beginners are welcome. Please bring binoculars if you have them. Free. Space is limited, and preregistration is required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116.

Thursday, July 17, 10am-12pm

Explore the Shore

Discover the secrets of the land, sea, and beach by exploring the shore! Though it isn't always obvious, the treasures we find on the beach can tell us stories about the land, the ocean and the beach itself. While strolling Laudholm Beach, we will explore the shore through questions about and investigations of sand, the wrack line, and other beach treasures. Program will start at the Gazebo with a quick introduction to tides before we head down the trail to the beach. Program duration is about 1 ½ - 2 hours and ends at the beach. Free with site admission. Please reserve your space at caryn@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x110.

Tuesday, July 22, 1-2pm

Center for Wildlife: New England Natives

Do snakes have fur? Do rabbits have scales? Are birds "cold-blooded"? Why do opossums have pouches? In this program the Center for Wildlife will provide an in-depth introduction to the unique differences between the raptors, reptiles, and mammals of Maine, while introducing the audience to their amazing non-releasable animal ambassadors. $8/$6. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116. Please note: Program fee does not include site admission fee.

Wednesday, July 23, 2025, 7:00pm

Laudholm Live: Bach, Ragas & Jazz

The Bach, Ragas & Jazz Project, 2025 consists of unique combinations of works that transcend cultural boundaries and juxtapose J.S. Bach's Suites for solo cello with the mystical Raga-inspired compositions of Shirish Korde, and reimagined Jazz masterpieces by legendary performers such as Billie Holiday and Eric Dolphy. These unique immersion programs transcend cultural and stylistic boundaries, drawing on Global cultures old and new, East and West, improvised and composed. $25/$20. Tickets available at wellsreserve.org/calendar. Doors: 6:30pm, show: 7pm.

Thursday, July 24, 10-11:30am

Secrets of the Salt Marsh

Learn all about this special ecosystem, nestled between the forest and seashore. Join us for a jaunt past meadows and forests down to our floating dock on the Little River. Here we will look out over the salt marsh and learn its secrets! This guided walk covers about 1 mile of fairly flat, slightly uneven trail terrain and is about 1 ½ hours in length. Free with site admission. Please reserve your space at caryn@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x110.

Thursday July 24, 5:30-7:30pm

Notes from the Coast, 2025 Art Opening

Join us for an opening reception for our newest art exhibition in the Coastal Ecology Center Gallery - Notes from the Coast, 2025 featuring Kathie Florsheim & Barbara Pagh. This joint exhibition pairs two artists making work that explores the coast, calling attention to what is usually considered ordinary. Both artists observe small, momentary changes that can be seen over time, capturing an instant that blends into the next instant - Pagh’s work does so on a microlevel through her lithographic collages detailing tidal changes. Florsheim’s photographs about water and light, in the series Room 10, do so on a microlevel and her images from the series Living on the Edge, about a coastal community living with climate change, approach her concerns on a macro level. Exhibition on view July 24 - September 14, 2025. Free and open to the public.

Thursday, July 24, 10:30-11:30am

Preschool Story Hour: Noisy Bird Sing-Along

Join Education Director Suzanne Kahn for a reading of John Himmelman’s Noisy Bird Sing-Along, followed by a related craft activity and outdoor discovery time! This program is geared towards ages 3 to 5 and their caregivers. Free with site admission. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116.

Saturday, July 26, 9:30am-12pm

Native Plants & Their Uses

Join naturalist Boot Boutwell for a walk exploring the fascinating history, uses, and lore of local wildflowers, trees, and shrubs. Learn about a common fruit American sea captains relied on to prevent scurvy, a fruit once used to make candles, and plants perfect for herbal teas. Along the way, pick up tips for identifying native plants and hear stories of how they’ve been used throughout time. $13/$10. Preregistration required at suzanne@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x116. Please note: program fee does not include site admission. 

Sunday, July 27, 2025, 10:00am – 11:30am

Fly & Remember

Fly & Remember grief event invites participants to honor their loved ones through a mindfulness experience. Attendees decorate a kite and write a personal message before flying it in remembrance. The activity encourages us to come together to care for our grief as we step into nature and connect with our memories of those who have died. The event begins in the auditorium with grief kite decorating. Afterwards, participants head to the field to allow their memory kites to rise into the sky. This event is facilitated by Elizabeth Straka, compassion-grief educator and end-of-life doula. Adults: $20/$15. Kids: Entrance fee only (6 to 16: $2, Over 16: $6). To register, email edgesofgrief@yahoo.com or call/text (207) 408-5657. Registration fee includes site entrance fee and kite materials.

Wednesday, July 30. 10-11:30am

Estuary Discoveries

Join Maine Master Naturalist Linda Littlefield Grenfell for a peaceful and easy meander along this accessible trail. We will learn about the value and importance of estuaries, where rivers meet the sea, while exploring the newest trail in the Reserve’s network. Free with site admission. Preregistration required at linda@wellsnerr.org or (207) 646-1555 x128. Learn more at wellsreserve.org/calendar.

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
• Comprehensive Plan Update Committee - 2 member vacancies
• Conservation Commission- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Energy Advisory Committee- 1 alternate member vacancy
• Lodging Facility Advisory Committee- 2 alternate member vacancies
• Personnel Advisory Board- 1 member vacancy

Learn more about each Board and Committee here.

Wells Ogunquit Historical Society to host annual car show

Don't miss the 14th annual Woodies in the Cove car show and parade, one of the highlights of our summer season. The 2025 show will start at 8:30 am on Saturday, August 9, 2025 followed by a parade at 2:00 pm through Wells and Ogunquit and into Perkins Cove. The show begins at 974 Post Road (US Rt 1) in Wells, Maine.

• Entry Fee $20 per vehicle
• Admission is free for spectators

Come vote for your favorite Woodie car and join in the fun!

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:

• Police Officer
• Recreation Program Coordinator
• Labor and Employee Relations Manager
• Library Director

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.

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.