COVID-19 Update
Dear Friends of MCHT,
Over the past year, we’ve heard from many of you who are outside enjoying the Maine coast more than ever, and we’re so glad. Throughout the pandemic, Maine Coast Heritage Trust preserves have remained open to the public.
If or when you do visit Maine Coast Heritage Trust preserves, we thank you ahead of time for helping us take good care of the land. We also ask that you take the precautions we’ve outlined below. The Maine Office of Tourism has also provided some helpful guidelines for getting outside on conserved land during this time.
Be Prepared and Find the Right Time and Place
- Dress for success: Be aware of current conditions and bring appropriate gear to match those conditions, including, snowshoes, ice grips, and plenty of layers to stay warm. Local outdoor stores are available to give advice on appropriate clothing and equipment. Consider buying a Maine-made brand!
- Check before you go: While many conservation lands remain open during the winter, access roads and parking areas may not be accessible. At the same time, conditions may not be safe or appropriate for desired activities such as ice fishing. Visit websites to see the latest information on closures and to learn about current conditions.
- Know what’s available: Consider visiting a nearby Wildlife Management Area, or a less-trafficked state park, public land, or land trust preserve.
- Have a plan B: If the parking lot is full, the destination is too crowded. If your first destination has a busy parking lot, go to the next spot on your list. Do not park on public or private roads where snowbanks prohibit parking completely off of the road.
- Don’t take risks: Stick to familiar terrain to avoid injuries, which add stress on first responders and medical resources. If you’re headed out alone, let someone know where you’re going and be especially careful.
Heed All COVID-19 Health Warnings
- Practice physical distancing: Stay at least six feet away from other people who do not live in your household. Step aside when passing other people on the trail and be considerate it’s different than how you’ve experienced the outdoors in the past, but necessary as we try to stay safe.
- Wear a mask: When you’re in the vicinity of others, even with six feet of separation, a mask will help keep everyone safer.
- If you’re sick, stay home: It puts others at risk when you leave home while exhibiting symptoms related to COVID-19, or if you have recently been exposed to the virus.
Looking for more resources on places to get outside? Check out your local land trust or Maine Trail Finder.
We thank all who generously continue to support MCHT. This work would not be possible without you.
Please, take good care. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to be in touch with your regular contacts at MCHT, or at .
Your partners in conserving the Maine coast,
The Staff, Board, and Council of Maine Coast Heritage Trust
Posted: 3/16/2020. Updated: 11/24/2020