NORC (national outdoor recreation conference)

Skowhegan, Maine, is doubling down on outdoor recreation (OR) as a tool for community and economic development. Through investment in OR infrastructure, free community programming and gear, and career development opportunities, we are transforming our rural community.

Destination Development: The highly anticipated Skowhegan River Park will redevelop an industrial downtown river corridor into an accessible OR asset with an expanded trail network, enhanced whitewater, and a downtown-adjacent riverfront promenade. The river park will not only benefit community members through improved river access and free recreation opportunities, but it will also bolster the regional economy by attracting visitors, businesses, and new residents.

Equitable Access: The Skowhegan Outdoors AmeriCorps Program launched in 2019 to ensure equitable access to the outdoors. In 2023 we guided 202 free OR programs and served 1,810 participants. In January 2024, we launched the Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp, a walk-in gear lending library featuring more than 200 items that Somerset County residents can borrow for free. We hope this space will also serve as a third space for local youth. 

Stewarding OR Professionals: Through Skowhegan Outdoors, five AmeriCorps members serving as Outdoor Recreation Facilitators, lead year-round OR programming for the community. Facilitators have access to continued training and professional development, and we are working on a multi-year career pathway program for aspiring OR professionals. 

Session takeaways will feature strategies for developing a plan for community transformation through outdoor recreation, including:

1. Strategies for prioritizing and constructing asset-based outdoor recreation infrastructure, including identifying opportunities, developing partnerships, and finding funding.
2. Tips for starting a gear library and free outdoor recreation programming in your community, including attracting and leveraging volunteers.
3. Creating professional development opportunities and career pathways for aspiring outdoor recreation professionals.