PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • August 25, 2023
In Maine, we are lucky to have six national wildlife refuges: Aroostook, Sunkhaze Meadows, Moosehorn, Maine Coastal Islands, Umbagog and Rachel Carson. Many studies detail the economic benefits of conserving refuge lands. The direct positive impacts on the local, regional and state economies are plentiful: outdoor tourism, lodging occupancy levels, local business revenue, the list goes on. There are also many other indirect benefits that we may not think about in our day-to-day lives. Take a hike along a rugged mountain path, cross-country ski over open fields, bird watch in a dense forest, canoe on a meandering stream, go hunt and fish in your favorite spot. All these activities enhance our quality of life. All these activities are supported by the FWS and refuges. Get out on a refuge and explore your sense of wonder. ~ Bill Durkin, Friends of Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge