Speak Up for Trail Funding in Maine

Speak up in support of a $30 million investment in trails

In every corner of Maine, trails are a valuable resource for connecting people and visitors to the outdoors. They are an essential component of Maine’s $3 billion outdoor recreation economy, which supports 31,000 jobs.

Demand for places to be active outside has never been higher. Though Maine has many exceptional and diverse trails, we have never had adequate funding to maintain them, and there is large backlog of trail maintenance projects that need attention. New funding is needed to meet the overwhelming interest in being active outdoors, and to make sure everyone can get outside, no matter their physical ability or where they live. To address this need, the Maine State Legislature is considering the Maine Trails Bond,  a bill that if passed will invest $30 million in the design, development and maintenance of non-motorized, motorized, and multi-use trails statewide.

AMC supports the Maine Trails Bond, and has been working hard to ensure that Maine is able to make these needed investments in our outdoor infrastructure.

Volunteers installing stepping stones to trail at Great Pond Mountain Land Trust.

I have been traveling to Augusta and meeting regularly with our elected officials, and that is why I am writing to you today. As a supporter of the Appalachian Mountain Club, your voice is needed now to help us pass the Maine Trails Bond and bring these needed investments to every corner of Maine.

Speak up today by sending a letter to Governor Mills and your members of the State Legislature supporting the Maine Trails Bond. We’ve crafted a message to get you started, but personalized messages have the greatest impact.

Sincerely,

Eliza Townsend

Maine Conservation Policy Director

PS – AMC is joining other conservation organizations on May 18th in Augusta for a “lobby day” focused on advancing our policy priorities. You’re invited to join us! Outdoor enthusiasts are our best messengers. If you are free during the day on May 18th and would like to attend, RSVP by emailing Eliza Townsend, Appalachian Mountain Club