Maine

Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity

Maine Department of Conservation - Natural Areas Program (http://www.maine.gov/doc/nrimc/mnap/index.htm)
The Maine Department of Conservation provides information on state and federal threatened and endangered plants and habitats of particular conservation concern, and stewardship actions designed to benefit these important natural resources (information on threatened and endangered wildlife is maintained by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife). Focus area maps (using Google maps) are available that highlight areas of conservation concern in Maine counties. **The program works closely with the Maine Forest Service to provide landowners with property reviews using information from both their database and the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife. Most of this assistance is free-of-charge but fees may apply.

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (http://www.maine.gov/ifw/)
This is the state agency responsible for the conservation and management of the state’s wildlife and aquatic resources. Sources of information on threatened and endangered species include:

Maine Endangered Species Program (http://www.maine.gov/ifw/wildlife/species/endangered_species/index.htm)
This program provides information on rare animals in the state, including maps of essential habitat protection for the bald eagle, roseate tern, piping plover, and least tern. http://www.maine.gov/ifw/wildlife/species/endangered_species/essential_habitat/introduction.htm

State Wildlife Action Plan (http://www.maine.gov/ifw/wildlife/groups_programs/comprehensive_strategy/)
In 2005, all states completed a State Wildlife Action Plan, to identify and focus management on fish and wildlife in greatest need of conservation. This document provides an overview of key species (primarily nongame) and habitats of conservation concern throughout the state.

Special Sites

Maine Historic Preservation Commission(http://www.state.me.us/mhpc/)
This is the primary state agency with knowledge and expertise in historic preservation, providing assistance in identifying and protecting historic properties, archaeological sites, burial places, and other cultural sites in the state. The staff includes preservation specialists (including historians, architectural historians, historic architects, and archaeologists). The Commission is in the process of conducting a state-wide architectural survey. Information on which towns have been surveyed and on how to access this information can be found on their website.

Maine Historical Society (http://www.mainehistory.org/)
This organization preserves the heritage and history of Maine. They have an extensive library collection which includes manuscripts, maps, and other materials. They maintain the Maine Memory Network, a statewide digital museum that provides access to historical items from over 180 museums, historical societies, libraries, and other organizations throughout Maine.

Natural Resources Conservation Service- Cultural Resources (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cultural.html)
The NRCS provides financial and technical assistance, including guidance related to cultural resources, to implement conservation practices. Prior to implementation, NRCS staff or other conservation partners will normally conduct site visits that include an inventory of cultural resources. If resources are identified, they can help provide options for preservation and a variety of appropriate land uses. Even if you are not receiving funding from NRCS, the Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator can provide information regarding cultural resources and may be able to visit your property or connect you with other organizations or individuals for assistance. The Cultural Resources Directory can be used to locate your state’s Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator.

Maine State Archives (http://www.maine.gov/sos/arc/)
The State Archives identifies, preserves, and makes accessible records (such as census records, military records, family histories, and various county, state and federal records) and other documents of historical value to the state.

Best Management Practices

States are required by the federal Clean Water Act to identify Best Management Practices to control surface runoff and other forms of nonpoint pollution. In many states in the US, BMPs are considered voluntary for forest owners. However, the AFF’s Standard of Sustainability says that to be certified, forest owners must apply BMPs (Standard 4, Performance Measure 4.1). States are given the flexibility to define their own BMPs appropriate to the management measure and approved by EPA and below is the link to your state’s BMPs:
http://www.maine.gov/doc/mfs/pubs/pdf/bmp_annual_rpt/bmp_rpt_08.pdf