“Maine’s forests have supported the economic needs of its inhabitants for 10,000 years. With proper management, these resources can continue to meet the economic, social, and cultural needs of society for the foreseeable future. Keeping Maine’s Forest is uniquely positioned to help make that a reality.”
– John Banks, Penobscot Nation
What is Keeping Maine’s Forests?
We are a proactive partnership from diverse backgrounds who believe that a healthy forest economy and ecosystem go hand in hand. Our coalition envisions a future Maine Woods as a mix of privately-owned, sustainably managed working forests and private and public lands conserved to protect unique ecological values. This mix will help assure the vitality of the forest products industry and sustain a healthy and intact forest ecosystem, supports local communities, protects valuable habitats, and assure public access for recreation for generations to come.
Maine has the largest unfragmented temperate broadleaf and mixed forest of any state in the nation and is one of the best examples of this type of ecosystem in the entire world. Ninety-four percent of this resource has been privately owned and managed for centuries, with forest products contributing more to Maine’s economy than any other industry. Almost 8 million acres are certified as sustainably managed. Moreover, Maine’s forest landowners have maintained the state’s tradition of permitting public access to their lands for recreation. This tradition is a phenomenal asset that Keeping Maine’s Forests seeks to conserve for future generations.
Who is Keeping Maine’s Forests?
Our membership represents large forest landowners, forest-dependent businesses, recreation interests, Maine tribes, education and advocacy groups, land conservation and wildlife interests, and government agencies.
Keeping Maine’s Forests represents a broad-based and inclusive approach to conserving Maine’s productive forest lands for the benefit of future generations. Collaborative approaches, like KMF, are the most effective way to ensure lasting results that benefit both landowners and the public.”
– Patrick Strauch, Maine Forest Products Council