This state-wide assessment of conservation lands in Maine highlighted the need for a more strategic, coordinated approach to protection–one that is based on inputs from a range of stakeholders and professionals across various disciplines and interests.

This report is the product of 18 months of regular meetings and sustained discussion among an unusually wide variety of groups, institutions, and businesses who care passionately about the future of Maine’s forests — without doubt the state’s single largest natural asset, comprising 19 million acres. This coalition, which represents the interests of landowners, mill owners, loggers, conservation groups and public agencies, can pioneer unique arrangements that:

• Maintain a stable or increasing flow of wood fiber

• Protect key natural resources

• Maintain air and water quality

• Preserve key wildlife habit

• Provide abundant recreational opportunities, and

• Sustain local economies.