Habitat AMC land certified by National Wildlife Federation

Contributed Article

 GREENVILLE — The National Wildlife Federation recently acknowledged the Appalachian Mountain Club’s management of wildlife habitat at Gorman Chairback Lodge and Little Lyford Lodge and Cabins and recognized these properties as official Certified Wildlife Habitat sites.

 NWF praised the efforts of AMC to improve habitat for birds, butterflies, frogs and other wildlife by providing essential elements needed by all wildlife – natural food sources, clean water, cover and places to raise young.

 The AMC’s properties are north and east of Greenville.

 “Providing a home for wildlife in our communities – at home, in schools, businesses or parks – is the demonstration of a healthy and active ecosystem. There is no more rewarding way to stay connected to nature right outside your door,” said David Mizejewski, a naturalist with NWF.

 “We’re honored to be recognized by the National Wildlife Federation for managing our lands to benefit wildlife,” said   Casey Mealey, AMC’s Maine Woods Initiative programs and recreation manager. “Wildlife-watching is one of the favorite pastimes of guests at our Maine Wilderness Lodges, and we also use these lands to introduce local schoolchildren to the outdoors and help them learn about the animals that call these woods home.”

 NWF’s Certified Wildlife Habitat program has been helping people take personal action on behalf of wildlife for more than 40 years. The program engages homeowners, businesses, schools, churches, parks and other institutions that want to make their communities wildlife-friendly.

 This new certified habitat joins NWF’s roll of more than 150,000 certified habitats nationwide. Wildlife habitats are important to year-round wildlife residents as well as species that migrate such as some birds and butterflies.

 AMC maintains 70,000 acres of surrounding conservation and recreation lands for use by the public. With a mix of forest types, varying topography, cold streams, and various ponds, these lands provide ample habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, loons, migratory songbirds and native brook trout.

 The statewide organization has offices in Greenville and Portland.