In the quiet corner of southern Maine, Poland Spring® Brand is making a big impact on the survival of some of the state’s most vulnerable bird species. With support from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW), the company that owns the brand has transformed 20 acres near its Hollis facility into protected grassland—one of the last remaining habitats of its kind in the region. 

The newly restored area, known as California Fields, has become a vital sanctuary for grassland birds, including the endangered grasshopper sparrow. Once a common sight, this small songbird is being seen less and less across the state. 

“The bird is in decline in Maine,” said Mark Dubois, Natural Resource Manager for Poland Spring. “We’re seeing a lot of development, and we suppress fire now, so this type of habitat—where grasslands exist—is becoming more and more rare.” 

To restore the open landscape, the birds need to breed and thrive, the company removed trees and brush that had gradually encroached on the grassland. The work was made possible with funding from the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund and was completed in April 2025. 

According to MDIFW, California Fields is now one of only three known breeding locations for grasshopper sparrows in Maine. It’s a critical effort, as grassland bird populations have plummeted nationwide. Since the 1970s, North America has lost about 25% of its bird population; more than half of that decline is attributed to grassland species. 

“We’re going to see fewer and fewer of these birds,” Dubois added. “Unless we take steps to improve their habitat, they could disappear completely.” 

“It’s about preserving the wild diversity that makes Maine such a special place,” Scott Lindsey, Regional Biologist for MDIFW said. “By protecting the species native to this landscape, we’re helping to ensure they’re part of it for generations to come.” 

Lindsey added, “the active management Poland Spring completed will set the stage for improvement in conditions for this bird and other species that seek similar habitat.” 

Looking ahead, the company plans to continue its conservation work by expanding the grassland and installing birdhouses to offer additional nesting opportunities.