1 Big Sustainable Island

Community News

Downeast hospitality on Annabessacook Lake, Maine.

1 Big Sustainable Island

Community News from 1BSI

Where island life meets neighborhood spirit - and everyone's invited to play.

At 1 Big Sustainable Island, we don't just steward a private island - we help grow a community that stretches all the way around Annabessacook Lake and beyond. We're proud to partner with our neighbors and local stewards who are as curious about nature, shared spaces, and simple living as we are.

Creating a path.

Lake Friends and Local Partners

1BSI is an active member of the Annabessacook Lake Improvement Association, collaborating on things like:

  • Milfoil surveys
  • Buoy placement and maintenance
  • Loon nest restoration
  • Volunteer recruiting

All to keep this lake vibrant and welcoming for paddlers, swimmers, and loon-spotters alike.

1 Big Sustainable Island

Day Visitors Welcome

Visitors staying on the island are welcome to join the wider lake community during daytime off-island hours - whether that's waving hello from the shore, joining a cleanup, or just enjoying what the lake neighborhood has to offer.

Building compoloo

Group Visits and Shared Learning

We're delighted to host schools, scouts, nonprofits, and other community groups who want to explore, learn, and lend a hand. If your group is looking for an island adventure with purpose, drop us a line - we'd love to make it happen.

Planning ahead.

Celebrating Local Involvement

Big thanks to all the young and curious folks who've helped shape our island story through hands-on service and joyful participation - from middle school community days to internship programs and watershed explorations.

Pulling in the barge.

As Seen on the Lake and Beyond

Our island has caught some local spotlight over the years - from comfort camping tales to quirky features celebrating this special Maine hideaway that most people don't even know exists.

Curious about our quirky community history? Take a look at the Outhouse Design Competition story:

Monmouth Academy Outhouse Design Competition

1 Big Sustainable Island

Ready to Join the Island Story?

Bookings go fast in peak season, but we're always excited to help new and returning visitors find their perfect island rhythm and connect with the broader lake community.


Ready to plan your overnight island stay?

Bookings go fast in peak season. We'll help you pick the right spot.

Book Your Stay