Maine Woods Initiative
A groundbreaking approach to conservation in the 100-Mile Wilderness.
The Maine Woods Initiative (MWI) is AMC’s multi-use recreation and land conservation project in the famed 100-Mile Wilderness. It’s an area at the heart of the largest contiguous expanse of undeveloped forest in the eastern United States. Since 2003, we’ve permanently protected more than 114,000 acres of this critical environment, with more on the way.
MWI uses an innovative and thoughtful approach to conservation that combines outdoor recreation, resource protection, responsible forestry, education, research, climate change mitigation, and community partnerships to permanently protect this incredible landscape for future generations. AMC has:
- Created 130 miles of recreational trails and three off-grid lodges
- Established a Forest Stewardship Council® FSC® - C008922 certified responsible forestry operation
- Received certification as an International Dark Sky Park, the first in New England
- Restored watersheds for native brook trout and endangered Atlantic salmon
- Developed partnerships with local Piscataquis County schools and the greater business community.
- Collected climate and ecosystem data from lake, stream, and forest sites
It’s the largest conservation project AMC has ever undertaken. And we’re just getting started. Visit our lodges, hike, ski, or bike miles of trails, and support our land preservation efforts.
What We Do
Recreation
The Maine Woods Initiative is a breathtaking destination for backcountry outdoor recreation.
Recreation
Responsible Forestry
A new model for forest management.
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Carbon Sequestration
AMC has developed three offset projects on our Maine forest lands.
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Education
Engaging Piscataquis County students in meaningful environmental education and youth development.
Email Stephany Perkins
Research
AMC scientists and partners collect climate and ecosystem data around the region.
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Support Community Science
Land Conservation
AMC protects more than 114,000 acres of land in Maine, including forests, lakes, rivers, and mountains.
Pleasant River Headwaters Forest
Help Protect the Barnard Forest
Dark Skies
The AMC Maine Woods International Dark Sky Park is the first International Dark Sky Park in New England.
Dark Sky Park
See the Dark
Habitat Restoration
Returning Atlantic Salmon and Eastern Brook Trout to their historic spawning grounds.
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Economic Development
Creating jobs in Piscataquis County.
See Opportunities
Learn More About the Maine Woods Initiative
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