On October 11th more than two dozen volunteers from the greater Portland area joined the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA), the Ocean Conservancy and the Island Institute in a cleanup of the islands in Casco Bay. The cleanup was the last in a string of semi-annual island cleanups sponsored by MITA spanning the entire coast of Maine. The island cleanups represent just one of the many stewardship services MITA provides along the Maine Island Trail, a 350-mile “water trail” of islands accessible to kayakers and other boaters for day use or overnight camping.

Fall is upon us here in Maine, with crisp days and stunning fall foliage. Those of us who visit the coast by boat have a unique perspective on this annual riot of color. Among other benefits, Maine Island Trail Association members enjoy access to the Trail's 168 public and private sites, two newsletters a year, opportunities to meet fellow island enthusiasts, discounts at retailers and guides, and of course our information-packed Trail Guide. Join or renew your membership during our fall special: $55 (individual) or $75 (family) to receive the 2008 Guide immediately AND the 2009 Guide, when it is published in the spring!

Trail Director Dave Mention has been spending a lot of time of the water this spring and has begun blogging about his experiences. Click here to read Dave's blog!