Appalachian Mountain Club – Maine Chapter

Looking to spend some quality time outside this summer with your family? Don’t know where to go? What to bring? Check out Maine’s Take it Outside web page. This initiative is supported by Governor Baldacci to encourage Maine families to reconnect with nature and lead healthy, active lifestyles. The web site contains information on how to get started, ideas for outings, a calendar of events to join other families in outdoor pursuits, photos of recent trips, as well as a blog and further links to more information. In addition, you can register to win a FREE family camping weekend for first-time campers at a Maine State Park; equipment included!

Would you like to keep informed on conservation issues, outdoor trip information, the Maine Woods Initiative, or general on-goings in the AMC? You can do this easily through AMC’s “E-Newsletters.” Choose to subscribe to any or all of these electronic newsletters. But do not worry; your inbox will not be flooded with unwanted mail. Messages are sent prudently and you can remove yourself from the lists at any time. Also on this web page are links to the most recent newsletters and information on how to contact your legislators at both the state and federal level when important conservation issues are at stake. Check it out to stay informed!

On Wednesday, June 18, 2008, AMC Member Larry Perkins will present a slideshow on his bike tour along the Great Divide from New Mexico to Alberta, Canada. This 2,400 mile trek was completed in 40 days and included visiting Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and the Peace Park in Alberta. Larry’s photos will take you along the length of the Rocky Mountains while he describes the many challenges of long-distance bike touring. Come see the awesome beauty of the high point of the North American continent as viewed from a bike seat!

The location is at the South Portland Library, 482 Broadway, South Portland, ME: parking is available off Highland Avenue. Dinner at 6 pm, presentation at 7 pm. Attendees are encouraged to bring a potluck item and their own dinnerware (plate, utensils etc.). Drinks will be provided and plastic-ware will be available.

What is the link between climate change and flowers? Become a volunteer for AMC’s Mountain Watch Program to find out! Observations are made on six targeted alpine species found on peaks in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York. Data collected are part of an environmental monitoring effort to track long-term trends and ecological responses to climate change and air pollution. AMC lodges in the White Mountains will be hosting flower walks and talks focusing on the ecology and natural history of plants will be featured as part of this effort. Visit the Mountain Watch section of AMC’s website for guidebooks, datasheets, and more information. In addition, in June the Maine Chapter is sponsoring a photography weekend in the alpine garden of Mount Washington, and a tour of the alpine garden on Mount Washington. Come see what all the beauty is about!

A reminder that AMC Maine’s May potluck event will be a presentation by Fran Leyman on her experiences rafting in the Grand Canyon. Come join us on Monday, May 19, 2008 in the Morrell Room at the Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick. For more information, view the entry in our calendar.

Are you interested in becoming more involved with the Maine Chapter? Would you like to work with 21 other energetic folks that love the outdoors? The Executive Committee is currently in need of a Secretary to take minutes at our monthly meetings. No prior experience is necessary; just a willingness to record the discussions and decisions during our meetings. A laptop computer could be provided for your use during the meeting if needed. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Laura Flight or 215-5306. Thanks!

Maine Chapter member and AMC Board member Elizabeth Ehrenfeld was featured in April’s Down East Magazine. A registered Maine Guide, microbiology, genetics, and biotechnology teacher at Southern Maine Community College, and sea kayaking guide for the WoodenBoat School and L.L. Bean, round out her portfolio. In this interview, Elizabeth answers questions ranging from how to safely (and uneventfully) enter and exit a kayak; how to dress; favorite places to paddle; and important tips about interactions with other boats (especially the ones that are bigger than a kayak!), as well as how to have fun! A great photo of Elizabeth in action also accompanies this article, so check out the April edition of Down East Magazine.

Are you looking to develop your skills as a trip leader? Or how about brush up on your map and compass skills and accident scene management? The Maine Chapter is sponsoring a leadership training on May 31-June 1 at Sugarloaf in Carrabassett Valley. Saturday will involve inter-active sessions in elements of trip planning, leadership styles, group dynamics, and running safe and well executed trips. On Sunday, participants will put the skills to work leading a group on a hike. Please see our calendar page for more information.

Looking to reduce your carbon footprint? Leaving your car at home is a great way to do this. So join other Mainers in this year’s big statewide transportation event the week of May 12 though 16. Commuters across Maine are welcome and encouraged to take part. Commute Another Way Week promotes healthy, economical and eco-friendly modes of commuting: Carpools, vanpools, transit (bus, ferry & rail), bicycling and walking to work. Continue Reading »