Appalachian Mountain Club – Maine Chapter

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

Have you seen the recent issue of Backpacker magazine? The July issue features an article on the Appalachian Mountain Club’s (AMC’s) hut system in the White Mountains. This featured article explores some of the history and the current operations of these mountain facilities, as well as the “croo” that make the whole system work and be a treat to stay at! So check out the latest issue!