First off, go over to the Black Bear Blog and read my post about the 25,000 acre purchase.
http://mainehuntingtoday.com/bbb/?p=1008
On to the Huts & trails issue.
This is what I have found. Is this it or not? You tell me.
The Western Mountains Foundation of which I believe was founded by Larry Warren is part of Huts and Trails. Here's the website link.
http://www.mainehuts.org/index.htm
Maine Huts and Trails is about people power not snowmobiling.
Huts
After a long day’s adventure on the trail or the water, imagine finding overnight comfort in one of several huts located at comfortable distances along the trail. Whether hiking, snowshoeing, paddling or skiing, guests of the huts will enjoy a warm shelter, hot meals and a friendly staff. Designed to accommodate 35 to 40 guests, the huts will be energy- efficient and will encourage visitors to employ Leave No Trace™ practices to manage impacts along the trail.
They’re yours to appreciate in your own way, in your own time.
This is also about their trails.
Trails
Traveling the 180-mile trail from Moosehead to the Mahoosucs, one encounters a uniquely Maine system offering access to lakes, rivers and forest trails to satisfy all ages and abilities
Traverse the Bigelow Range by snowshoe
Spot Moose along the shore of Flagstaff lake
Fish for trout in Poplar stream
Canoe hut-to-hut along Indian Pond
Ski for miles in the Maine backcountry along freshly groomed XC ski trails.
And their mission statement.
Mission
• Create a resource of national significance for our state and region.
• Provide opportunities for environmental and experiential education.
• Enhance opportunities for people-powered outdoor recreation.
• Stimulate environmentally sensitive economic development opportunities within Western Maine.
• Instill an environmental stewardship and conservation ethic within our communities and residents.
• Provide perpetual year-round public access to remote and special areas along the trail corridor.
Here is the connection perhaps that Jack mentioned pertaining to BIW.
Jon Fitzgerald
VP and General Counsel
Bath Iron Works
Jon sits on the board for the Western Mountains Foundation. I would say by looking down through the list of board members there certainly appears to be some pretty well to do and influential people sitting on a board overseeing kind of an "exclusive" group.
At this point in time, I see nowhere where this effort is limiting participation.
The head of the SledMe Association knew nothing of any proposed snowmobile trail. This was the only thing she could direct me to.
I'll keep my eyes and ears open though and hope you guys will too.