for jobs . People are self-independent living off the land and protecting natural resources . There are strong partnerships with the Passamaquoddy Tribe . Several unique features including wild resources , artist heritage , history , good quality of air / light pollution .
Group 6 : The area is defined by its natural resources where the families have been adapting to the land and water over generations . Strong ties across borders , between different cultures / people , and between the land and sea . This area has a strong history with the Revolutionary War and resources ( timber / granite ). We have been feeding the nation ( wild blueberries , fisheries , etc .) for a long-time . As the industries have changed , the people have changed to meet the times and the landscape .
At the conclusion of the meeting , participants endorsed conducting a Feasibility Study and presenting it to Congress for their consideration . It was agreed that SCEC was the appropriate regional community group to support that effort . SCEC committed to identify sources of funding for the work . Maine Community Foundation partners and an anonymous donor provided enough funds to begin the Feasibility Study , and SCEC provided the remainder .
Gathering Public Input
SCEC began the Feasibility Study in early March 2020 . SCEC staff met in person to discuss the project with representatives for Maine ’ s Congressional delegates ; the Maine Office of Tourism ; Department of Agriculture , Conservation , and Forestry ; and the State Bureau of Parks and Lands . Soon after , stay-at-home orders were in place due to the Covid 19 Pandemic and planned tactics for public information-gathering sessions were altered .
In lieu of public meetings , SCEC staff conversed oneon-one with community members and organizational partners via Zoom . SCEC staff attended Board and committee meetings around the region to introduce the proposal and gather feedback . Organization boards and committees throughout Downeast Maine include primarily businesses and
A word cloud representing the common themes emerging from this Summit ’ s breakout discussion .
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