Since 1997, the Northern Forest Center has forged deep partnerships and secured resources to support jobs, conserve forestland and strengthen communities in the region.
We are creating the New Forest Future, and it’s a long-term endeavor. To get there, we invest in people and communities to secure regional prosperity and a resilient landscape.
As an advocate for the region, we’ve partnered with the region’s elected leaders and public agencies to secure and leverage funds for the region exceeding $260 million.
As an investment partner for the region, we’ve helped conserve 259,219 acres of forestland for sustainable forestry and community ownership.
As an innovator for the region, we’ve assisted business and provided funds enabling them to invest in technology and changes that improve their business model and provide good jobs. Our programs have helped sustain more than 10,000 jobs in forest-based businesses and tourism.
This grant has provided a push in the direction we needed to go — it's been incredibly helpful. In so many ways, it’s helping us provide an opportunity to mingle and create community, both here in Greenville and with others who visit the Northern Forest.”
We raised $1 million through our first impact investment fund and put it to work creating quality rental housing in Millinocket, Maine, to alleviate the shortage of rentals for new residents and to support the community's resurgence.
The 2018 Symposium on the Outdoor Recreation Economy highlighted the region’s commitment to recreation, leading to new funding for projects, shared priorities, and increased state support for this important part of the economy.
As coordinator of the Maine West network, the Center has helped organizations in Oxford County, Maine, build their collaboration and capacity to tackle broadband expansion, community health, sustainable tourism and educational aspiration.
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The Center goes beyond enhancing recreation amenities to help communities develop destination appeal.
The Center’s staff have a collective 150+ years of experience working in the Northern Forest.
