Contact: Catherine Schmitt, Maine Sea Grant 207-581-1434, catherine.schmitt@umit.maine.eduORONO, Maine — Ask a Mainer who owns the beach, and you’re likely to get several answers. “The beach is private property of the landowner.” “The town owns the beach.” “The public has the right to use the beach for fishing, fowling, and navigation.” Sometimes the answer is read more New Publication Helps Answer the Question, “Who owns the beach?