Maine Tree Club Planning 2010 Outings

Contact: Amy Witt, 207-780-4205

PORTLAND, ME— Maine residents and visitors can learn more about one of the state’s greatest resources by joining the Maine Tree Club, ane ducational project designed for people of all ages to learn about trees. University of Maine Cooperative Extension, the Maine Forest Service, and the Pine Tree State Arboretum collaborate to manage the club and plan activities.

The annual registration fee for the Maine Tree Club is $20 per person, $30 per couple, $35 per family, and $65 per group of up to 15. A limited number of Maine Tree Club scholarships are available for those in need and there is no deadline for registration. Those interested may request a free informational brochure by calling University of Maine Cooperative Extension at 800-287-1471.

The Maine Tree Club is planning at least three outings around the state in 2010 to get people into the woods for hands-on learning and enjoyment. These outings, guided by experts, are planned for the mountains and coastal regions as well as other parts of Maine. Through these outings and twice-monthly fact sheets featuring different Maine tree species, club members will learn to recognize 50 different types of trees over a period of two years and gain skills that can be applied in their own yards and communities.

Participants receive additional materials including a hand lens for close-up viewing of tree parts, an attractive notebook for the tree species fact sheets, a pocket guide to Maine trees, and several practical guides related to tree growth and care.

Maine’s trees attract tourists by the thousands, support the state economy and deliver constant inspiration to area artists, poets and naturalists; they are at the root of Maine’s identity.

UMaine Extension programs are open and accessible to all in accordance with program goals.