A project of the Maine Community Foundation and the Maine Philanthropy Center
Maine has 17.8 million acres of forest land, which makes it the most heavily forested state in the nation at 90%; it is also has the highest percentage of privately owned land at 94%. Public recreational use of private lands has generally been assumed open and free, unless posted. However, research indicates there are growing numbers of landowners who are posting their lands. This poses a challenge for the many citizens who rely upon the generosity of these private landowners, and an economic challenge for the state.
In a 2008 report to the Governor’s Council on Maine’s Quality of Place titled Public Access to Maine’s Private Lands: A Cultural and Economic Asset, hunting, snowmobiling, wildlife watching and ATV ridership generated more than $900 million annually. Private landowners provide a vital resource for the state’s economy while also enhancing the quality of life for Maine residents and visitors. Differences in landowners’ attitudes about public access that are related to age, ownership, tenure, goals of ownership, location of land, etc. must be identified if the state is to take meaningful steps to address landowners’ concerns and maintain public values that have traditionally flowed from private land such as recreational access, wildlife habitat, forest products, and aesthetics.
Phases:
Research Goals and Objectives:
Future alliances between policy makers, stakeholders and public land users will depend upon mutual understanding of concerns and values. This research will suggest strategies for future opportunities and partnerships that will sustain recreation access on private forest land.
GrowSmart Maine (PDF)
Maine Conservation Voters Education Fund
Small Woodland Owners Association of Maine,
EFN’s Quality of Place Initiative