Appalachian Mountain Club – Maine Chapter

One of the last pages listed in your paper publication AMC Outdoors is the “AMC Trader.” This page lists places to rent in great outdoor settings, other lodging options, vacation packages, in addition to gear and guides for sale, and even a personals section. This handy little exchange is also available on-line and is updated more frequently than your bi-monthly AMC Outdoors can provide. So if you are looking for gear, lodging, vacation options, or someone to enjoy the outdoors with, try AMC’s trader on-line!

Are you a shutterbug? Here’s your chance to share your images with your fellow AMC members! The AMC’s 16th Annual Photo Contest has been announced for 2010. And although the deadline isn’t until November 15, 2010, photography is a year-round sport! This is a great opportunity to show others your work and possibly have your images become part of the AMC’s print and online publications. Photo submissions may be made in three categories including (1) Kids, Families, and Adults Outdoors; (2) Scenics and Nature; (3) AMC in Action and up to three submissions may be made in each category. For more information including contest rules, visit the AMC photo contest website or e-mail amcp...@outdoors.org

“Even in times of crisis, we’re called to take the long view to preserve our national heritage –- because in doing so we fulfill one of the responsibilities that falls to all of us as Americans, and as inhabitants of this same small planet.” Those were President Barack Obama’s words on April 16, 2010. And the initiative to work toward these goals is called “America’s Great Outdoors.” 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.

As part of AMC’s Maine Woods Initiative (MWI), forestry is an important aspect. And practicing sustainable forestry is a critical piece. As well as ensuring a healthy forest in the future, these sustainable practices also supply timber to local mills and generate income used to maintain roads, pay property taxes, and fund general operations. AMC contracts with the Millinocket-based Pelletier brothers to undertake these harvests. Yes, the same Pelletier brothers are featured on the Discovery Channel’s American Logger, so watch for AMC’s land in future episodes!

Join the toughest 100-mile bike trek in Maine, and beautiful 25 and 50 mile options, that head into Evans Notch. You can also hike the ridge of Pleasant Mountain as a way to support land conservation in the Bridgton area. Loon Echo Land Trust protects 3,750 acres of land and maintains 22 miles of hiking trails, some in cooperation with the AMC. AMC members- register by August 1 for only $38 for the bike options and $28 for the hike, for fully supported treks and BBQ dinner!! FMI.

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!

Registration is open so sign-up today! Forms are available in the latest issue of our newsletter “Wilderness Matters” and on our website. Join fellow Maine AMCers and meet new faces for a weekend full of activities on the shores of Damariscotta Lake in Nobleboro at Camp Kieve. This is in the heart of the mid-coast region of Maine and nearby Camden Hills State Park! Enjoy hikes, bikes, paddles, as well as workshops! Come Friday night for a provided chili-dinner, select an activity for Saturday, and enjoy a dinner and guest speak Saturday evening. There will also be some activities on Sunday. Please visit our web page for more information. See you all there!

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.