Quahog Bay Conservancy's new home at Waddles Wharf

The new home of the Quahog Bay Conservancy will be our hub for science, stewardship, and shared action to protect the waters of Quahog Bay, Harpswell, and beyond.

A Center for Marine Research

Just steps from the ocean, the new center will give researchers immediate acces to a living marine environment.

Enabling real-time observation, experimentation, and data collection for not only experienced scientists, but also undergraduate/graduate students looking to gain real experiences in the field of marine science.

The Center
Equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, the center will tackle critical issues in conservation and marine science. Its facilities, field research capacity, and on-site housing for visiting scientists and students make it highly capable and ready for the future of marine science.

Not only will QBC open a science center, but is also looking to introduce a new retail and community space for seafood sales and tasting in the location of the old lobster pound.

The Quahog Bay Conservancy

Learn more about QBC at quahogbay.org

Waddles Wharf

The relocation of the Quahog Bay Conservancy to Waddles Wharf will enliven and energize what had been a working fishing wharf and lobster pound for over 50 years. During that time, the site was home to apartments, was later a bed and breakfast and most recently operated as the Quahog Bay Inn.

History of
Waddles Wharf

Past, Present, Future

The center will be located at the half-acre site of the old Quahog Bay Inn, a hotel built in 1978 on Waddles Wharf that is no longer in operation. The commercial wharf was used for more than 50 years, but deteriorated over time and is now in complete disrepair. The hotel and wharf have been closed since 2022.

The opportunity exists to rebuild the wharf and to make it functional again. The Marine Science Center will activate the site and invest in the restoration and will return the wharf to full operation.

1978

Strategic planning begins to define the Center’s mission, vision and programming

Late 2024

Site demolition commences

2025

Construction begins

2027

Center construction complete

Frequently Asked Questions

(This section will be updated as plans are developed.)

Why is QBC adopting a new home for its operations?

The new center is an extension of the Scanlan family’s commitment to investing in the conservation of the bay and the natural environment. The Quahog Bay Conservancy’s work has led to an interest in furthering marine science research in the bay, which will be dramatically improved by the new facilities.

Will the Marine Science Center partner and collaborate with other institutions?

Collaboration is a key part of our mission. We are currently in the process of identifying partners and collaborators to help us achieve a productive and meaningful future for the center.

How will the community be involved in the new Center?

The community will be a key aspect in the day to day of the new center, from community spaces and programs, to retail and tasting opportunities.

What is the vision for rebuilding Waddles Wharf?

The wharf has been in disrepair for many years and needs to be restored so it can again be used by local fishermen. Part of the center’s development will include rebuilding and restoring it to become an active working wharf.