Welcome to the 8th edition of “A Month @ MOB,” a roundup of news and events in Maine’s outdoor industry each month:
MOB spent time in Augusta weighing in on two bills:
The Maine Outdoor Schools for All Act (LD 1817) would provide Maine students a chance to participate in multi-day outdoor programs led by Maine’s outstanding trip leading organizations. An Act To Provide Relief To Small Businesses Affected By Severe Weather-related Events (LD 2191) would support small businesses, including outdoor industry product, service, and retail brands, impacted by the recent storms.
Maine looks to unlock full potential of outdoor recreation economy with new 10-year roadmap
The Roadmap is a guide for thinking about the next ten years of Maine’s $3.3B (and growing!) outdoor recreation industry. It will identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for sustainable growth and diversification of the outdoor recreation economy.
Under LELT’s ownership and management, public access will be maintained, important wetlands protected, and habitat for wildlife enhanced.
Coalition calls for $30 million bond to support Maine trails
The municipalities, businesses and recreation organizations called on Maine lawmakers to seek voter approval for the funds.
“Members of the Maine Craft Association, Maine Outdoor Brands, the University of Maine’s Advanced Manufacturing Center, and the New England School of Metalwork have all rallied behind us. It is the Maine way. You ask for help and help is given.”
MOB speaks to innovation for winter recreation brands in the face of climate change
For winter recreation industry — now more than ever — climate change is top of mind.
A new 446-acre Community Forest within five minutes of downtown Rumford has been permanently protected as of February 27, 2024.
Maine Fly Company calls for leaking or damaged waders for new Repurposed Waders Program
“Modern PVC, neoprene, and Gore-tex variants are what the greater majority of waders are made of. When a pair of waders are thrown out, they will stand in our landfills for decades at best.”
The Maine Outdoor Film Festival announces their 2nd annual WOMEN IN THE WILD film event
A two hour program of women-driven outdoor adventure and conservation short films hosted this Friday, March 8 (International Women’s Day) at Toad & Co. in Portland.
Sign up for the free Maine Trails event to connect with local organizations, enjoy refreshments, and take action by sending a postcard to your representatives, all while sampling backpacking meals from Good To-Go and getting your gear repaired by Maine GearShare.