MAINE GOVERNMENT • January 5, 2026
Maine’s tradition of public access to private lands is culturally and economically significant. With Maine’s landscape composed of 92 percent private ownership, access to private land supports hunting, angling, snowmobiling, ATV riding, hiking, paddling, wildlife watching, trapping, and a wide spectrum of year-round and seasonal recreation. However, this tradition faces increasing pressures, including expanding user groups, unprecedented levels of visitation, rising infrastructure costs, and new landowner concerns about liability, environmental damage, and inconsistent user behavior. Maine risks the erosion of an access system that has long benefited the public while respecting landowners. This report presents recommendations to strengthen the access system by addressing systemic challenges, improving education and enforcement, supporting landowners, and securing predictable long-term arrangements. The central message: The status quo is no longer sustainable, and immediate action is needed to support landowners who voluntarily provide access.