2024 Goals
Our goals are interconnected and aimed at fulfilling two important priorities. First, we aim to build a skilled and dynamic workforce that will steward Maine’s forests for generations to come. Second, we aim to enhance the appreciation and understanding of forest ecosystems and the professionals who steward them.
The Maine Timber Research & Environmental Education Foundation (Maine TREE) promotes and supports forest-based education and research throughout the state. As we look ahead to 2024, we have set ambitious goals to further our mission and expand our impact.
One of our primary goals is to grow our network of teachers and natural resource professionals that implement forest-based education activities with students through Maine Project Learning Tree. Expanding our reach and connecting with more educators can inspire the next generation of environmental stewards and foster a deeper appreciation for Maine’s natural resources.
In addition, we will continue developing our Forest Ecology Research Network (FERN) community science research plots throughout the state. These plots provide valuable data and insights into forest ecology and management, enabling students to contribute to local research.
Finally, we are committed to increasing awareness of forest-based career opportunities in Maine. From forestry and wildlife management to recreation and tourism, the forest sector offers a wide range of rewarding and fulfilling career paths. By highlighting these opportunities and connecting individuals with the resources they need to pursue them, we can help to build a strong and sustainable future for Maine’s forests and communities.
Fundraising events/Opportunities
Maine TREE Forest Awards Night Join us on Oct. 19, 2023, for the first-ever Maine TREE Forest Awards Night. This special event is a time to acknowledge and honor forest stewards who have demonstrated their commitment to Maine’s forests. During the Forest Awards Night, we will recognize the 2023 recipient of the Austin Wilkins Forest Stewardship Award and the inaugural recipient of the Sherry Huber Forest Champion Award. Join us for an evening of fun and recognition, including a silent auction. We are accepting sponsorships for this event, with details available at mainetree.org/sponsor.
Giving Opportunities
In the spring and fall, Maine TREE makes appeals for our general fundraising campaign. These appeals coincide with the release of our biannual print newsletter, OverSTORY. We request support from both individuals and businesses to help us raise funds for the operation of our organization.
In addition to our general fundraising campaign, we also conduct campaigns to request sponsorship support for several of our programs. Our most popular giving campaign is to sponsor teacher scholarships on our Forests of Maine Teachers’ Tour program. Furthermore, we raise funds to support our annual Certified Logging Professional Banquet and Forest Awards Night. We welcome support from businesses and individuals interested in supporting one of our many programs.
Volunteer Opportunities
Our educational programs require volunteer educators, such as classroom teachers, environmental educators and natural resource professionals, to lead activities for teachers and students across Maine. We have volunteer opportunities to assist with data collection at the Holt Research Forest in Arrowsic and through our Forest Ecology Research Network statewide. We also have numerous opportunities for volunteers to participate in tabling at fairs.
