RECOGNIZING CULTURAL AND NATURAL HERITAGE
Recognizing the Region ' s Unique Cultural and Natural Heritage
The Downeast Maine National Heritage Area( NHA) designation establishes national recognition of the region’ s unique cultural and natural heritage and its contributions to the nation’ s collective heritage. NHA programs provide support to a variety of partners as they plan and implement heritage preservation, recreation, economic, and education initiatives that matter locally.
During 2025, the Planning Team focused on developing collaborations through heritage-based projects to help members discover heritage connections and build strength as a program management entity.
The Planning Team held their first in-person team retreat in September on Taunton Bay in Sullivan. The Planning Team reviewed goals and objectives identified through public discussions held in 2024 and prioritized three project categories to develop together. These include interactive heritage experiences, community building and civic engagement, and outdoor recreation.
Sub-committees were formed to plan and implement projects within these topics that celebrate and promote our collective status as a National Heritage Area.
A fourth sub-committee was established to develop a variety of methods to connect with the public and engage them in program development. SCEC staff developed an independent website for the Downeast Maine NHA to keep community members and partners informed and provide opportunities to engage with the planning process.
The Management Planning Team is supported by technical assistance from the Rivers, Trails, and Parks Conservation Assistance team, a program of the National Park Service. Sunrise County Economic Council provides staff to coordinate program implementation.
Learn more and stay up-to-date at downeastmainenha. org
Despite uncertainty about program funding since 2024, the Downeast Maine NHA program was finally, and fully, funded for FY2026.
14 | SCEC 2025 Annual Report