NATURAL RESOURCES COUNCIL OF MAINE • September 20, 2021
A relatively unknown state agency holds the key to the future of much of Maine’s North Woods. That agency, which was created 50 years ago this month, was originally known as the Land Use Regulation Commission (LURC) but is today named the Land Use Planning Commission (LUPC). As the LUPC marks a half-century, we are reflecting on the milestone decisions made by the agency that greatly influenced the fate of the North Woods. We’re also harkening on why holding the agency accountable to its mission is more important than ever because of the threats of increased development pressure, climate change, and biodiversity loss. ~ Melanie Sturm, NRCM Forests & Wildlife Director