Abandoned Cape Dory Found in Woolwich Mudflats; Edgecomb Weighs Destruction

A Cape Dory 25 that first appeared in Edgecomb last May and vanished by August reappeared on Woolwich mudflats, stirring fresh questions about town responsibility and public liability. Harbor Master Terry Stockwell reported on Nov. 25 that Woolwich officials had notified him the abandoned sailboat was on their mudflats, and he raised disposal as the central issue for Edgecomb.

Edgecomb became legally responsible for the vessel last spring after the death of the previous owner and the owner’s wife informed town officials she did not want the boat. That transfer of responsibility left the town with a derelict hull that has moved with tides and tides of attention from local officials since it first appeared.

Stockwell framed the problem bluntly to selectmen: "The question facing us is when and how? Regarding the town's responsibility in the sailboat's disposition." He told the board the town could face exposure if the vessel remained and suggested a straightforward remedy. "I don’t know what the condition is, but I know it's a liability to the town. I suggest we destroy it because it has no real value. It's like an albatross hanging over us," he said.

Selectmen were directed to gather information on removal and disposal options and to create an action plan during one of their December meetings. That process will determine whether Edgecomb pursues destruction, salvage, towing, or another route for the boat, and how costs and environmental safeguards would be managed.

The sailboat matter came up alongside other local planning and shoreland issues at the same meeting. Selectmen continued work with Twisted Willow Farms on a replanting agreement intended to address shoreland restoration. Separately, applicants seeking a change of use on River Road had begun work without prior permission and were identified as potentially in violation of shoreland rules. Planning board officials reported that required remediation tied to that site had not occurred and that a consent agreement had been discussed as a possible remedy.

Municipal ordinances spell out which town bodies may enter into consent agreements, and the rules assign that authority to the selectboard rather than the code enforcement officer. Planning board members, including chair Rebecca Graham, raised concerns that unresolved remediation and unauthorized work complicate enforcement and restoration efforts.

For Edgecomb residents the story ties together public safety, shoreland stewardship, and municipal authority. The town must now balance liability and environmental protections while deciding whether to destroy, remove, or otherwise resolve the derelict Cape Dory. Watch upcoming selectmen agendas and meeting minutes for the town’s formal plan and any decisions about costs, contractor bids, or removal timelines.