MATC awarded Maine Outdoor Heritage fund grant

    The Maine Appalachian Trail Club (MATC)  announced receiving a $20,000 grant from the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund (MOHF). This grant supports MATC’s resource protection work in 2013 at the Gulf Hagas region, a National Natural Landmark consisting of a five-mile loop-trail located in the Central Maine mountains.

    Powered by volunteers, MATC’s Maine Trail Crew will perform three weeks of intensive rock work to help stabilize the Gulf Hagas Rim Trail. From May through October, a MATC ridgerunner will provide stewardship and Leave-No-Trace education to hikers. Grant funds will also be used to send a pre-season packet to approximately 100 colleges, high schools and summer camps that use the AT in Maine.

“The MOHF grant enables our club to maintain access to Maine’s very-own ‘Grand Canyon of the East’, support youth groups and strengthen volunteer activity in conservation,” said Lester Kenway, president of the MATC. “Critical work can be completed thanks to MOHF.”

    The MOHF has been helping to fund critical conservation and wildlife projects throughout the state since it was created by the legislature in 1996, in response to a grassroots effort from environmental and sportsman’s groups.

    The MATC manages and maintains 267 miles of the Appalachian Trail in Maine. Founded in 1935, MATC is an all-volunteer, donor-supported nonprofit that welcomes new members and inspires respect for this natural treasure. Visit MATC at www.matc.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MaineATC.