BANGOR DAILY NEWS • November 1, 2025
Only 6.5% of Maine is classified as public land, and the state ranks last among the six New England states. For decades, land trusts have stepped up to provide outdoor access, including support for traditional land uses such as hunting, fishing and trapping. Maine land trusts have built and maintained over 3,450 miles of trails. This improves access to long-cherished properties that might have otherwise been lost to development or posted signs. There is a misconception that land trust lands are only for non-consumptive recreation. Not true. Maine land trusts allow hunting on more than 2.7 million acres. In addition, they manage more than 200 boat launches, which provide critical access for anglers and allow hunters and trappers to reach remote areas. We wish everyone good luck for the hunting season and encourage all users of publicly accessible lands, hunters and non-hunters alike, to stay safe. ~ Colin Brown, Downeast Coastal Conservancy