A large group of individual outdoor-oriented Maine organizations have agreed to join together and create a new state-wide outdoor federation. During a steering committee meeting in Hallowell, May 11th, the Maine Outdoor Federation (MOF) was formed. The organization got its start from an exploratory meeting that was held in Northport earlier this spring. At that meeting, which was called by the Maine Professional Guides Association (MPGA), there were 17 outdoor-oriented organizations in attendance. At that meeting, facilitated by MPGA executive director Don Kleiner, attendees each took turns outlining what they thought were critical issues facing the Maine outdoor community. Among the most common concerns expressed by the group were government leadership, habitat, deer herd, brook trout protection and recreational access. There was also a consensus that the various stakeholder groups need to do a better job of communicating with the public, and with one another.
MPGA President Jeff Bellmore summed it up, “As representatives of the Maine outdoor community, we need to be better stewards of our own destiny.”
At the Hallowell meeting, the newly formed Maine Outdoor Federation solidified its mission statement, or purpose, as follows: “A federation of outdoor organizations that gives public visibility to issues in the outdoors and serves as a network of information and communication.”
Those outdoor organizations in attendance at the exploratory meeting, who indicated an interest in joining with the new federation are: Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, Maine Wilderness Guides Association, Maine Professional Guides Association, Maine Wild Turkey Federation, Maine Charter Boat Captains, Maine Youth Fish and Game, Ruffed Grouse Society, Aroostook County Conservation Association, Northwoods Sporting Journal, Rangeley Region Guides & Sporting Association, Maine Trappers Association, Fly Fishing in Maine, Grand Lake Steam Guides Association, IF&W Advisory Council, Maine Chapter of Safari Club International, Maine Bowhunters Association, and Maine Bass Federation.
In an effort to build its state-wide membership, MOF’s steering committee will also be conducting an outreach program specifically aimed at convincing the state’s numerous fish and game clubs that affiliation with the Maine Outdoor Federation can serve to help preserve Maine’s natural resources and proud outdoor heritage. Any outdoor organizations interested in membership or learning more about MOF should contact Don Kleiner, 207 785 4496 or email him at info@maineoutdoorfederation.org .
