In case you haven't heard, Monson , Maine named the first Appalachian Trail Community

[woodsy]

http://bangordailynews.com/2012/07/18/outdoors/monson-named-the-first-maine-appalachian-trail-community/

[canoe]

Congratulation Monson

[WingedMonkey]

It always has been.

[thestin]

Actually, it's the first community in Maine to be so named. There are many other communities with this designation, including my home of Front Royal.

[WingedMonkey]

I meant that as a compliment to Monson that it has always been a trail town. Some of these ATC desginated Trail Towns have almost no use to or by hikers.

[markc7]

Rangeley in western Maine will become Maine’s second Appalachian Trail Community on Sept. 15

Rangeley? Really? I found it to be a quite unwelcoming place to hikers.

[Tinker]

Too bad Keith Shaw isn't around to enjoy the distinction. Shaw's has probably done more for hikers in the years it's been open than any other single institution in Monson. Keith was one of my favorite characters in my years of section hikes.

[Lauriep]

Here is information about the A.T. Community program, in case there is any confusion about its purpose, from ATC's website:


The Appalachian Trail Community™ program is designed to recognize communities that promote and protect the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). Towns, counties, and communities along the A.T.’s corridor are considered assets by A.T. hikers and many of these towns act as good friends and neighbors to the Trail. The program serves to assist communities with sustainable economic development through tourism and outdoor recreation, while preserving and protecting the A.T. Designation as an Appalachian Trail Community™ and participation in the program is aimed to:

• Engage community citizens, Trail visitors and stewards
• Recognize and thank communities for their service to the Trail and hikers
• Act as a catalyst for enhancing sustainable economic development
• Aid local municipalities and regional areas with conservation planning
• Help local community members see the Trail as a resource and asset

SHORT TERM BENEFITS

• National designation network and communication
• Recognition and visibility through signage, press releases, Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s website and publications
• Enhanced partnerships with public land agencies and volunteers
• Teacher eligibility for an ATC place-based education and service-learning program

LONG TERM BENEFITS

• Increased community environmental stewardship
• Increased sense of place and cultural sustainability
• Trail-friendly promotion through ATC-assisted marketing techniques

Laurie P.
ATC