Downeast Coastal Conservancy (DCC) and the Porter Memorial Library are teaming up to provide outdoor gear for the local community. This program is aimed at helping the community discover and learn about conservation by encouraging children and families to get outside and explore the region’s natural assets.
Starting March 1st, five nature themed backpacks will be available. Each backpack includes pocket guides, tools for exploration: binoculars, hands lens, compasses and more, and family-friendly activity cards.
“This program is building on the four nature backpacks we provided to the Lubec Memorial Library last year”, said Cathy Lookabaugh, Membership and Outreach Director for DCC. “We (DCC) recognize there can be many barriers to outdoor recreation including the prohibitive cost of outdoor gear, therefore we are continually working to design community resources that are focused on making outdoor activities attainable for everyone.”
In addition to the nature exploration backpacks, DCC is also providing the Porter Memorial Library with ten pairs snowshoes that participants can check out free of charge. “Check one out, just as you would a book, and then get outside to explore,” expressed Lookabaugh. If you are unsure of how to utilize the gear, Lookabaugh encourages folks to join DCC staff for guided hikes which happen throughout the year.
Patrons with a valid library card will be able to check out one of the five backpacks for 14 days and a pair of snowshoes for 7 days. Of the 10 pairs of snowshoes available, 2 are specially designed for adult males, 2 are designed for adult women, and 6 are designed for youth. The backpacks can be renewed if there are no reserve requests waiting to be filled. Snowshoes are available for a shorter checkout period to allow additional patrons the opportunity to hit the trails before snowmelt. Both items must be returned in person during the library’s operating hours. Fees may be assessed for lost or damaged items.
DCC is a non-profit organization whose mission is to conserve essential ecological habitats, engage the local community, and foster an environment where wildlife and people thrive. To learn more about the land trust or find information on upcoming events, please visit downeastcoastalconservancy.org.