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.

Why just survive when you could thrive? Step into the world of bushcraft with this hands-on workshop designed to build comfort and confidence in the outdoors. Join bushcraft instructor and Registered Maine Guide, Tessa Storey, as we practice essential skills like safe axe and knife use, tarp shelter setup, and wet-weather fire building. Whether you’re brand new to bushcraft or brushing up on your skills, this workshop offers a welcoming space for learning and exploration.

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. Instructor, Dan Bell, will 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 these important species in our ecosystem while supporting Maine’s conservation goals. This workshop is a blend of hands-on demonstration and practice, led by Washington County’s recreational safety coordinator, Haleigh White. Participants will learn scouting techniques, hunting tactics and equipment, personal safety, shot placement, and basic game care.

GPS use is on the rise, but basic map and compass skills are the key to navigation in the backcountry. Join 2022 Maine Game Warder of the Year, Camden Akins, to learn how to read topographic maps and put a compass to use. Orient a map, set a bearing, and set a course, and soon you’ll find out how much fun it is. We’ll cover triangulation, declination compensation, and route planning.

With over 6,000 lakes and ponds and 32,000 miles of rivers and streams, Maine has a lot of water to explore. What better way to do so than fly fishing? Participants will receive an introduction to fly fishing in Maine, the gear needed to get started, and the techniques to get you casting on the water. Wading along Maine’s rivers and streams is one of the best ways to see the untouched beauty of the outdoors and some incredible wildlife along the way. Participants do not need a fishing license for this workshop, as we will focus on techniques and no actual fishing is involved.

Join Registered Maine Guide, Master Naturalist, and Gardener Winston Tony Antoine for a hands-on introduction to naturalist skills. This introductory-level workshop is designed for budding naturalists who want to begin exploring the outdoors with confidence. Participants will learn to use core tools of the trade—field guides, hand lenses, and your senses—while practicing simple techniques to identify fungi, trees, and signs of wildlife.

Through guided exploration, you’ll develop observation skills, practice using practical identification resources, and discover approachable ways to continue growing your naturalist practice. Whether your curiosity is sparked by mushrooms, trees, or the presence of local animals, this session provides a solid foundation for further learning and a deeper connection to the natural world.

Schedule

• 8:30 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 (same options as morning).

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

• 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. es here

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