Maine Outdoors and Adventure_Spring 2023

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What it Takes to Become A REGISTERED MAINE GUIDE

STORY & PHOTOS BY AISLINN SARNACKI

Everyone’s path to becoming a Registered Maine Guide is different. Mine included covering my hands in fake blood, befriending a dog named Libby, picking wild strawberries and wishing I’d paid more attention in geometry class.

Let me explain.

In Maine, you need to be licensed in order to guide people on different outdoor adventures — if you’re looking to be paid for those services, at least. And in order to obtain a license, you must pass a challenging test administered by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

The test is broken into two phases: a written exam with 100 multiple choice questions, and an oral exam during which you demonstrate outdoor skills such as paddling a canoe and tying a square knot.

Preparation is key. Even if you have a lot of experience in the Maine outdoors, you’ll undoubtedly learn something new as you study for the big test. I know I did.

The first thing I did was purchase the study materials suggested by the DIF&W – books like the “Master Guide Handbook” by Gil Gilpatrick and “Be an Expert with Map & Compass” by Bjorn Kjellstrom. I also bought good old fashioned notecards and highlighters, and I started jotting down notes by hand, which is one way that I learn best.

It was strange. I felt like I was back in college, except I had no professors to keep me on task.

To add some structure to my studying, I enrolled in an online map and compass course taught by Greg Sarnacki

(no relation) of Forage River Outfitters. A famously challenging part of the guide exam is an exercise in which you plot points and measure distances on a topographic map. Just a few degrees off on your measurement, and you fail.

It is during that course that I was transported back to high school geometry class while visualizing how longitude and latitude lines circle the globe.

I also attended a two-day wilderness first aid course led by Jon Tierney and hosted by Mahoosuc Guide Service, out in Maine’s western mountains. A certification in wilderness first aid is required for any Maine guide, and it must be updated every three years.

It’s during that course that I smeared fake blood on my hands before pretending to have been concussed in a four-wheeling accident — to help fellow students learn how to respond to an emergency. We all took turns being actors in that course.

I also cleaned and bandaged a gravel-filled gash in a hunk of raw chicken, then injected epinephrine into that same piece of meat. (Epinephrine is used to treat severe allergic reactions, which can be life threatening during an outdoor trip.)

Lastly, to uncover any holes in my knowledge, I attended a four-day course that Maine’s Outdoor Learning Center designed to help people prepare for the test. While staying in a beautiful cabin on the Mattawamkeag River, I attended lectures and demonstrations with a small group of fellow prospective guides.

The exam is slightly different depending on what outdoor activity you’re specializing in. The guide classifications are hunting, fishing, sea kayaking, tide-water fishing, and recreational (which includes inland boating, backcountry camping, snowmobiling, and ATVing).

But for all exams, much of the base knowledge is the same. An outdoorsperson is an outdoorsperson, after all. So during the course, we all learned together.

It’s during that course that I met a German shepherd named Libby. The center’s unofficial mascot, she often followed me when I left the group to walk through the woods or sit by the river’s edge. I quite enjoyed having her as my wolf-like guardian for those few days.

Libby wasn’t the only friend I made during the course. One evening, I went for a swim and picked wild strawberries with a woman I’d befriended during class. Like me, her interests lay in hiking, camping, and interpreting nature. We’re still in touch today.

So you see, everyone’s journey to becoming a guide is unique – and likely packed with memorable moments. It’s a process to embrace, not rush. And I highly suggest sharing the experience with others, whether it’s through taking courses from experts or working for a seasoned guide.

I’m happy to report, my journey ended with passing the exam and earning the coveted Maine Guide patch. Then began my next adventure: leading people on some of my favorite hikes in the state. So far, I’ve had a blast.

Aislinn Sarnacki takes a selfie while guiding two clients up Cathedral Trail in September 2022 on Katahdin, Maine’s tallest mountain. PHOTOS COURTESY OF AISLINN SARNACKI

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Learning to Brave THE GREAT OUTDOORS

OUTDOORS ADVENTURES FOSTER GROWTH FOR WOMEN OF ALL AGES

BY ANNE GABBIANELLI

“It was a magical place to be and I wanted to hike Katahdin,” said 14-year-old Sofie Westra of North Yarmouth when asked about her adventures with She Summits Co., an outdoor adventure group that offers summer camps for first to 12th graders, mother-daughter quests, women’s adventures, and international journeys. “I want to go back to She Summits because it is an amazing camp.”

When speaking with She Summitts Co. founder Amanda Hatley and the parents and daughters who have enjoyed the journeys, it’s hard to say who is more excited about outdoor adventure travel — the participants or the trip leaders.

Hatley, an outdoor enthusiast who grew up in rural North Carolina, moved to Maine seven years ago. She says her business started with a simple question. “A friend asked me what my passion in life was and how I wanted to make an impact on the world.” From that discussion came She Summits Co.

The Bradford resident launched her business in November 2019 with the goal to create a female-oriented company to nurture girls and women in brave outdoor adventures.

“I joke that we work with 5 years old to 105 years old, but specialize in youth exploration education.”

Despite starting her business just months before the pandemic, Hatley says the feedback has confirmed why she started this business. “We’ve heard from parents that the independence created by coming on our trips has really helped their daughters foster their selfconfidence after being stuck at home for so long. These participants get a chance to prove to themselves they can do hard things in a supportive environment.”

Hatley acknowledges she has seen an increase in anxiety and social awkwardness among middle and high school participants in particular. “We really

put a lot of emphasis on autonomy and group collaboration as well, so when the group is setting aside their social reluctance, our highly trained trip leaders create an experience tailored just for the campers. We have seen huge smiles from sunrise hikes to nighttime constellation talks that I feel have helped recharge the souls of all of our participants whether they know it or not.”

Sofie’s dad, Jay Westra, said the She Summits Katahdin voyager trip and subsequent rustic endeavors are well mapped out. “With each trip, she learned group dynamics, internal strength, and problem solving. The skills and strength she gained from her trip experiences show in her daily life — she is much more independent, confident, and is willing to try new challenges.”

“The trip leaders and everyone I met inspired me to do more amazing experiences like this,” added Sofie. “I am glad I had an opportunity like this. For people that have not been exposed to the outdoors, I would tell them to just try it out. Things may seem hard at first but it always ends up with you having an awesome time. I just wanted to stay at this camp forever.”

Kristi Mitchell of Bucksport is a fan of what She Summits has offered her 10-year-old daughter Hannah.

“I was looking for something with a smaller camper-to-staff ratio and to get her outside, away from a screen,” said Mitchell. The outdoor escapes began with an April vacation day camp, “and after that, Hannah couldn't wait to go back during the summer.”

Hannah said that exploring the great outdoors is the draw for her. “The adventure! The friends! The trees! You should be in the forest. It's amazing and best of all, you get to go to mysterious places."

For more information, visit shesummitsco.com to see where your next adventure

take

can

you.

(Above) A brave climber traverses S. Otter Cliffs in Acadia National Park as part of She Summits Co.’s Explorer South of Acadia Program. She Summits works with Acadia Mountain Guides for this program.

(Below) She Summits Co.’s Voyager’s Program attendees summit Mt. Katahdin in 2021.

(Bottom) The Explorer South of Acadia Program climbs with Acadia Mountain Guides at S. Otter Cliffs. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHE SUMMITS CO.

HIDDEN BENEFITS OF MAINE’S FORESTS

COURTESY OF THE FOREST SOCIETY OF MAINE

Whetherwe are hiking along an alpine peak, fishing cold waters for wild brook trout, boating across a calm lake, or mountain biking along a bumpy backwoods trail, we might notice cavities made by pileated woodpeckers, lush greens and blues of moss and streams, or high-pitched croaks of spring peepers.

But what we may not think about are the molecules of carbon stored in tree fibers and roots or the decades of tree rings that might one day show their texture in the bats of a major league baseball player.

The Forest Society of Maine (FSM) focuses its work on conserving Maine’s North Woods for all the ecological, economic, cultural, and recreational benefits they provide. It is likely that the observable benefits of Maine’s vast for -

est landscapes are what we appreciate while spending time in Maine’s great forests—rich wildlife habitats, biodiversity in flora and fauna, clean water in rivers and streams, and extensive public access. But we might overlook the hidden benefits.

The North Woods are the largest contiguous forestland east of the Mississippi. They are home to climateresilient forests, and support Maine’s forest products industries. Among some of the hidden benefits of our forests are:

• Carbon sequestration and storage

• Watersheds and clean water

• Starlit skies

• Diverse forest products

Maine’s forestlands hold immense carbon-sequestering and carbon-stor -

ing potential. Forests can play a major role in mitigating climate change by pulling in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing carbon. In fact, through current forest management practices, Maine already sequesters an amount equal to nearly 70% of its annual carbon emissions.

Nearly 90% of Maine is forested, making it the most forested state in the U.S. This lends to Maine being home to the darkest night skies east of the Mississippi. Maine’s forests also contain significant portions of seven out of ten of Maine’s major watersheds. Several FSM conservation projects have protected the headwaters of great rivers that flow through these watersheds.

Moreover, Maine’s forests provide a surprising range of forest products.

From swabs used in Covid-19 testing to insulation, and from Wabanaki-made woven baskets to the clothes we wear, the forest products Maine’s forests supply are critical for energy, infrastructure, and even health-related uses.

FSM-conserved lands are largely sustainably managed, working forestlands, allowing for conservation that supports Maine’s rich history in the forest products industry, public recreation, and the cultural and ecological values of our forests. But we can’t assume they will always be here. Development pressure and habitat fragmentation can erode the unique features of Maine’s forestlands. Permanently conserving Maine’s forests can ensure that both the obvious and hidden benefits of Maine’s forests exist far into the future!

Meet the 2022 LIFETIME OUTDOOR ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT

COURTESY OF THE MAINE DEPARTMENT OF INLAND FISHERIES

Galen Ruhlin began hunting and fishing at an early age. His daughter Meghan recently saw some old films from the 1940s showing Galen hunting deer with his family at the age of 6 in Township 16, as well as lobstering and fishing off Gouldsboro Point as a kid.

Galen passed that love of the outdoors to his daughter, who has fond memories of waking at 3 a.m. to go salmon fishing on the Narraguagus. It’s clear Galen knew how to get young people hooked on the outdoors, as part of his daughter’s memories included stopping for a glazed donut at the local bakery. With incentives like that, it is no wonder his daughter Meghan was cleaning fish and skinning deer by the age of 6!

In the many nomination letters submitted for Galen, folks talked about his expertise and passion for the outdoors, gleaned over decades, and how he gladly passed that along to others through conversation or actions. He was a teacher to all, whether it was friends, children, or those that he guided. He shared in all their successes, from just viewing a bear while on a hunt or taking one himself. There is also a compassionate side to Galen that shines when dealing with others who love the outdoors. Several Game Wardens have shared that Galen always had coffee or tea with biscuits or pie for anyone who may stop by. Galen has been an excellent source of information regarding fish and wildlife resources in the area, and many game wardens and biologists have leaned on him and his woods expertise.

Warden Dave Simmons shared that over the years Galen has always been willing to assist anytime there is a sick or injured moose, or a moose/vehicle accident, no matter the time of day or weather conditions. While that is commendable, Simmons also noted that Galen would never keep the meat to himself, but instead would always provide it to those who needed it the most, spreading the meat throughout the community.

Galen has had a significant impact on Maine’s black bears as he became a driving force that helped influence one of the state’s largest blueberry companies to adapt to nonlethal methods to keep bears away from beehives in the blueberry barrens, including encouraging the company to spend money on exclusionary fencing and relocating bears.

Galen’s efforts over the years certainly exemplify stewardship and wise use of our natural resources. That combined with Galen’s compassion for others and passion for the outdoors made him the clear choice to be honored as the 2022 Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Lifetime Outdoor Achievement Award Winner.

Past Recipients

Over the years, DIFW has honored many deserving individuals.

2015 HARLAND HITCHINGS AND JOSEPH BOUDREAU

2016 GARY COBB, JIM MARTIN AND OSCAR CRONK

2017 CAROLE DYER AND GABRIEL GIGUERE

2018 DANA JOHNSON AND ROGER MILLIGAN

2019 CHARLIE MANN AND GEORGE SMITH

2020 (AWARDED IN 2021) DAN AND SALLY MCALLISTER

2022 GALEN RUHLIN

NOMINATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE 2023 OUTDOOR LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is now accepting nominations for the 2023 Annual Lifetime Outdoor Achievement Award. This award, which is presented by Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, honors individuals who are dedicated to the stewardship and wise use of our natural resources, and who have been or are active in Maine’s rich outdoor traditions.

MAINE.GOV/IFW/NEWS-EVENTS/MAINE-LIFETIME-OUTDOOR-ACHIEVEMENT-AWARD.HTML

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As Maine’s largest generator of renewable energy, Brookfield Renewable proudly operates hydro, wind, and storage facilities throughout the state. Our Maine facilities provide more than 840 MW of power, a generation equivalent to powering more than 500,000 homes annually. Now and into the future, our facilities remain critical in helping Maine meet its carbon emissions targets. We are passionate about the role we play in highlighting the natural beauty

and recreational benefits of this great state. We provide more than 200 recreation sites throughout Maine and provide daily releases from May through Columbus Day on Class 2, 3, and 4 whitewater. Each year thousands of private and commercial paddlers enjoy Maine’s pristine waterways as a result of these scheduled releases.

Throughout Maine, we provide recreational access to some of New England’s best angling and fly-fishing locations. Whether you enjoy fall scenes on the Magalloway, Moose, or Penobscot rivers, the angling opportunities are endless. We provide real-time flows and elevations for our facilities via our waterflow website at safewaters.com.

Remember, river systems are wonderful resources, but they can also be dangerous. Conditions can change

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quickly and without notice. While the waters above and below a dam may look safe, conditions below the surface can present serious risks.

Be aware of your surroundings and

observe all warning signals, sirens, and barriers. Please respect all signage, recreation rules, and be a good environmental steward wherever your next outdoor journey takes you!

10 PicturesqueADVENTURE SPOTS IN MAINE

BY KATIE SMITH

The snow is melting, warmer weather is here, and it’s time to get the family outside for some adventure. If you are looking for fun along some of the most beautiful backdrops Maine has to offer, here are a few scenic spots to visit in our stunning state.

1. Two Lights State Park, Cape Elizabeth

Pack a picnic, bring a kite, a few balls, or a frisbee, and take in the ocean as you walk around the 40-acre state park. Invite friends and family and eat around the provided picnic tables as you enjoy the sound of waves crashing.

2. Camden Hills, Camden

Camden is a beautiful town to explore and have lunch or dinner, but don’t forget to head over to the Camden Hills State Park. There are many trails to Mount Battie, Mount Megunticook, and other beautiful spots where you can stop and see the ocean from above.

3. Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor

The most beautiful park in Maine is stunning all year round. Spring is a great time to visit Thunder Hole, hike Cadillac Mountain, visit all the lighthouses, and don’t forget Bar Harbor. You can take a car ride around the park on the Loop Road tour, rent or bring bikes, and even explore on horseback.

4. Viles Arboretum, Augusta

Augusta has a 224-acre pine tree park and the botanical garden of Viles Arboretum where you can hike and bike all year round.

5. Rockport

Rockport has been named one of the prettiest villages in Maine. The Children's Chapel is home to a beautiful garden and Rockport is known for its Belted Galloway Cows (also called Oreo Cows) that are located on a 136-acre farm that runs tours and art shows.

6. Baxter State Park, Millinocket

If you are a nature lover and crave peace and solitude, you must visit Baxter State Park. There’s lots of hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, and camping. It’s also one of the best places to spot wildlife.

7. Ogunquit Beach, Ogunquit

Ogunquit has over two miles of sandy beaches, some of the most unique shopping in Maine, and lots of fantastic places to eat. Walk around the funky town, explore the ocean, and book a charter boat tour.

8. Coos Canyon, Byron

Located along the Swift River, Coos Canyon is home to one of the most unique swimming holes in Maine. The canyon has some beautiful falls and cozy cabins for camping. You can also bring your RV for a longer stay or stop by for a picnic and just enjoy the view.

9. Monhegan Island

Monhegan Island is a picturesque island that has lots of scenic hiking trails and amazon views of the ocean.

10. Moxie Falls, Moxie Gore

Moxie Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Maine. It’s a stunning 90-foot drop as well as other plunges and pools to explore. The walk around the falls is easy, and just under a mile which makes it perfect for the entire family.

The summit of Bald Rock Mountain in Camden Hills State Park. ALL PHOTOS: AISLINN SARNACKI | BDN FILE

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