On February 27th, we hosted a Community Engagement Session in Carrabassett Valley, bringing together selectmen, town managers, planning board members, and representatives from various organizations across the region. Notably, HPA was pleased to welcome Franklin County Commissioner Bob Carlton. It was a productive evening!

Brent West, our executive director, kicked things off with an overview of the High Peaks Initiative, highlighting the importance of incorporating recreation assets into town Comprehensive Plans. We also discussed the challenges of maintaining reliable access to recreational areas, especially during the winter months.

But the heart of the session was hearing directly from our community partners about their priorities and needs. We learned about projects like Eustis’s new groomer barn- a significant investment in winter recreation. We also heard about challenges, such as balancing tree growth with open space and ensuring public access to spots like Webb Lake.

• Collaboration is Key: The importance of collaboration was a recurring theme throughout the session. Whether it’s leveraging Franklin County’s TIFF program or advocating for increased state support for the snowmobile industry, we can achieve more by working together. 
  
• Youth Engagement Matters: Several participants emphasized the need to engage young people in outdoor recreation and conservation efforts. It’s crucial to instill a sense of stewardship in the next generation. 
  
• Access Remains a Challenge: Maintaining and improving access to recreational areas is a top priority, especially during the winter months. This includes addressing infrastructure needs and ensuring responsible stewardship practices.