Led by renowned terrestrial ecologist Tom Wessels, professor emeritus and founder of the conservation biology master’s program at Antioch University New England, we will explore how to interpret a forest's history, including previous agricultural use, wind and wildfire disturbances, and former logging histories, as well as how to date each of these events. We will also explore some of our trees’ unique adaptations and interesting coevolved interrelationships that occur within our woodlands. For over 50 years, Tom has studied forest, desert, arctic, and alpine ecosystems around the world, but he has made Mount Desert Island home in large part due to its epic geological story and natural and cultural histories. This workshop is inspired by the teaching in Wessels’ seminal book Reading the Forested Landscape. Full of wonderful signs and clues, with careful attention and specific knowledge the landscape reveals profound stories.

Discover how water quality, aquatic habitats, and watershed health are all connected, above and below the surface. Join Director of the Somes-Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary, Billy Helprin, for an on-shore and on-the-water exploration of Somes Pond. As we paddle by canoe and kayak, we’ll look for wildlife in and around the water, get hands-on practice testing water quality, and uncover how land use shapes the health of lakes and streams. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the hidden connections that keep watersheds thriving and knowledge of how you can help protect them close to home.

Please note: Participants should bring shoes that can get wet and/or an extra dry pair to change into. All participants must be able to bend and get into and out of canoes and kayaks.

Maine is home to some of the most beautiful, serene, and remote gravel riding and adventure cycling opportunities in the country. This workshop is designed to help participants prepare for rewarding two-wheeled travel in Maine’s varied landscapes. Led by Camp Beech Cliff Outdoor Educator Christopher Brahan, this session will cover where to go for adventure rides, how to build routes using accessible planning resources, what to bring for trips ranging from short rides to overnights, and how to pack your bike to meet the demands of the journey. Participants will also learn how to build a practical repair kit, manage basic bike repairs in the field, and prepare for a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable ride. By the end of the session, you’ll feel more confident and better equipped to plan your next cycling adventure in the Maine wilderness and beyond.

Ever wanted to learn how to shoot a bow and arrow safely and accurately but haven’t had the chance to try? This workshop will get you familiar with the equipment and various types of bows, and you’ll be hitting the target in no time. Archery is a fun recreational activity that anyone can learn, and with a little practice you’ll be confidently hitting the bullseye. We’ll cover different types of bows and arrows, shooting position and form, and how to shoot at various distances. We’ll also practice on 3-D targets and discuss how to get started in archery hunting, why it’s an important component of Maine’s wildlife conservation efforts, shot placement, and the benefits of archery hunting.

Hunting is an exciting way to spend time in the woods while matching your skills with some of Maine’s sought-after species. Spring turkey hunting and fall deer hunting are a great introduction to the traditions held sacred in Maine and a way to learn about this important species in our ecosystem, while supporting Maine’s conservation goals. This workshop is a blend of hands-on demonstration and practice, led by Registered Maine Guide and experienced hunter, Carmen Bombeke. Participants will learn scouting techniques, hunting tactics and equipment, personal safety, shot placement and basic game care.

Join Registered Maine Guide, Master Naturalist, and gardener Winston Tony Antoine alongside Schoodic Institute Environmental Educator Lex Mitchelle for this introductory workshop on rod-and-reel fishing. Participants will learn about the equipment needed to get started, how to safely rig and use basic fishing tackle, and foundational casting skills and techniques. We’ll also explore how to select promising fishing sites and consider the conditions that influence where fish may be found. Participants will then put their new skills into practice while fishing from the docks on Echo Lake. Whether you are completely new to fishing or looking to build greater confidence, this workshop will provide a welcoming and practical introduction to enjoying Maine’s freshwater fisheries.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Schedule

• 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM – Check-In

• 8:45 AM – Introductions

• 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Session 1
  Participants select one workshop for the morning.

• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Lunch
  Please bring your own lunch and snacks.

• 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Session 2
  Participants select one workshop for the afternoon

• 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM – Closing Remarks & Departure

• Camp Beech Cliff – On-Site Camping is Available!
  On-site tent camping is available on Saturday, the night before the event, for an additional $25 fee. To inquire about camping, call 207-244-0365.

• Mount Desert Campground – A scenic campground on Somes Sound offering wooded tent and RV sites with convenient access to Acadia National Park and nearby island communities.

• Blackwoods Campground – A popular Acadia National Park campground located near Bar Harbor, offering wooded sites and easy access to park trails.

• Bass Harbor Campground – A family-run campground offering tent and RV sites near Acadia’s less-traveled western side.

• Terramor Outdoor Resort – A luxury glamping resort in Bar Harbor, offering upscale tents with modern amenities.

• Bar Harbor / Oceanside KOA – A well-equipped campground at the head of Mount Desert Island, featuring waterfront RV and tent sites.

• Salt Cottages – Stylish, modern coastal cottages and a boutique motor lodge overlooking Frenchman Bay in Hulls Cove.

• Seawall Motel – A quiet, oceanfront motel in Southwest Harbor with clean, comfortable rooms and friendly service.

Maine Outdoor Programs, offered by Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, provides hands-on learning experiences for people of all ages and skill levels to connect with the outdoors. Whether you're looking to build new skills or strengthen existing ones, our programs offer opportunities to explore hunting, fishing, trapping, outdoor preparedness, and wildlife viewing in a welcoming environment.

The outdoors is for everyone, and learning in nature is a lifelong journey—there’s always something new to discover! Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, learning opportunities through Maine Outdoor Programs will help you gain confidence, expand your knowledge, and deepen your connection to Maine’s incredible natural resources.

Learn more about Maine Outdoor Programs by visiting their website: https://www.maine.gov/ifw/programs-resources/educational-programs/outdoor-programs/index.html

We acknowledge that we gather on the unceded homelands of the Wabanaki, the People of the Dawnland, whose confederacy includes the Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Maliseet, and Mi’kmaq nations. The Wabanaki have cared for these lands and waters since time immemorial and continue to do so today, despite the lasting impacts of settler colonialism. We honor their enduring presence, sovereignty, and stewardship of the land and waters we now call Maine.

Have questions about the event, workshops, or registration? Reach out — we’d be happy to help!

• info@campbeechcliff.org

• (207)244-0365