| The Northern Forest Center
was founded in 1997 to mobilize people to build healthy communities,
economies and ecosystems by working together across the Northern Forest
of ME, NH, VT and NY.
Through research and network building, The Northern Forest Center's
programs have addressed sustainable economic development, heritage and
culture, conservation, place-based education and regional collaboration.
The
Center believes that by building partnerships and working together,
people and organizations can attract the resources, build the capacity
and take the actions needed to establish the Northern Forest as a model
for living sustainably and well in a rural, forested place.
The Center’s Guiding Principles:
- Invest in and enhance local capital
- Celebrate heritage and culture
- Strengthen connections between people and places
- Conserve and restore ecosystems
- Work using cooperation and collaboration
Using
these principles as a guide, the Center partners with individuals and
organizations that represent diverse perspectives to build knowledge,
develop solutions, catalyze networks and deliver programs and services
at local, regional and national levels.
Current Major Initiatives:
- The Sustainable Economy Initiative?
is developing a strategy and action plan for economic revitalization
for the Northern Forest region that is based on balanced investment in
both community and environment. This four-state, $1.6-million research
and strategy project is managed in collaboration with the North Country
Council (NH) and is guided by a Steering Committee appointed jointly
with the four Northern Forest states' governors.
 Ways of the Woods
raises awareness of the Northern Forest's heritage, economy and the
changing relationship between people and the land by bringing a
museum-quality exhibition to rural communities across the Northern
Forest and beyond. A unique, mobile educational program housed in a
colorful 18-wheel truck, Ways of the Woods is making its inaugural tour
through Fall '06, exhibiting at museums, fairs, festivals and other
celebrations throughout the Northern Forest and beyond.
- HandMade in the Northern Forest builds recognition of heritage crafts as a growing
part of the region's economy while strengthening the region's artisans
and craft producers' network. HandMade in the Northern Forest: A guide
to fine art and traditional crafts in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and
New York is a full-color guidebook to more than 360 artists,
traditional crafters, craft marketplaces, special attractions,
restaurants, inns and B&Bs, organized into 13 driving tours
throughout the Northern Forest.
The Northern Forest
Center is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization, founded by Stephen D.
Blackmer. Steve, who also serves as president of the Center, has worked
in the forests and communities of northern New England and New York for
more than 20 years. He received the 2003 "International Paper
Conservation Partnership Award" from IP and The Conservation Fund,
recognizing his work in the Northern Forest.
Learn more about the Center at www.northernforest.org .
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