Appalachian Mountain Club – Maine Chapter

In April 2010, President Barack Obama kicked off the America’s Great Outdoors (AGO) Initiative. This encourages people to unplug from the e-world and reconnect with the natural one. You can submit your ideas to conserve natural places, share your stories about the places you love, and find ways to enjoy the outdoors. There will be a public listening session on Thursday September 2 in Bangor where your voice is needed! FMI.

AMC paddlers get some press coverage!
Check out this recent photograph in the Mid-Coast Forecaster of Maine Chapter leaders Michelle and Stan Moody lead a kayaking group on the Androscoggin River on Saturday, August 14, 2010. This trip was done in conjunction with the Brunswick Topsham Land Trust as part of a celebration of its first 25 years of success. The group took a three hour paddle to visit Cow Island in the lower end of the Androscoggin River.

Would you like to go to the widely acclaimed Common Ground Country Fair in Unity September 24-26? All you have to do is volunteer to staff the AMC booth for a 3-hour shift on any day. It’s a great way to talk with many AMC members, as well as encourage folks to become members. Or, if you are going to the fair anyway, come visit our booth! The fair has been dubbed “Maine’s most authentic country fair.” Events, vendors, and exhibitors promote conservation and sustainable living while enjoying local, delicious organic food. Contact Jeanne Christie for more information.

Ready to hit the trails for with the Maine Chapter for a day hike? Check out this summer day hike checklist to help you plan for success in the outdoors!

The Baxter State Park Management Plan is up for revisions, and the public’s input is being sought. You can comment on things that you like and dislike, things that need improvement, future direction of the park, or any constructive comments in general about the 200,000 acre Baxter State Park. A listening session is scheduled for Tuesday July 27 from 5:30 – 7PM at the Bangor Public Library. Let your voice be heard!

Normandeau Associates, an environmental consulting firm, is seeking experienced backpackers with wilderness experience to assist field crews in the White Mountain National Forest. The project is scheduled to start on August 16 and run for approximately 14 days, with the possibility of continuing longer depending on conditions in the field. Duties will include: setting up and breaking camp, carrying in supplies and equipment, obtaining provisions, cooking breakfast and dinner, and providing bagged lunches for the crew. The number of crew persons will vary but will be between 6 and 10. It is anticipated that camp will require break down/set up approximately every 4 days. Responsibilities also include clean up (dishes, cookware, general campsite housekeeping). Fees are negotiable. FMI, please contact Leah Kock at 207-797-7717.

In the market for a new kayak? Check out this article in the Portland Press Herald, courtesy of Carl Natale, Registered Maine Sea Kayak Guide. His tips include identifying the difference between a recreational and ocean kayak and how to figure out which would work best for you.

Do you want to go hiking AND support a cause at the same time? July 23-24 is the annual “Seek the Peak” hike to support the non-profit Mount Washington Observatory. This year is the 10th anniversary! There is thousands of dollars in prizes, hiker goodies bags, live music, and awards bash as well as a dinner feast. So, grab your hiking boots and a couple of friends and help raise even more funds in 2010. To register, call (800) 706-0432 x230 or visit the website, SeekthePeak.org!

Come join in the fun! The Bike Coalition of Maine will be holding their annual Maine Bike Rally in Brunswick from Friday, July 9, 2010 to Sunday, July 11, 2010. Local individuals can ride for $15.00 plus meals. Check out the Bike Coalition of Maine website to register.

For our many hiking members, you won’t want to miss this helpful article on selecting hiking boots that is posted on the outdoors.org website. Good comfort means good times!