Welcome to the Department of Conservation!
Dear Friend of Conservation:
Maine is a place like no other.
The Maine Department of Conservation is charged with being the steward of the resources that define our state: a rich geological history and unique natural communities; 17 million acres of forest; 10.4 million acres of unorganized territory; almost 600,000 acres of public reserved and non-reserved lands; and the 48 state parks and historic sites that provide education, recreation and renewal for both Mainers and visitors.
The people of the MDOC are dedicated to conserving and improving these valuable resources for all Maine people, and they meet their responsibilities with high standards of commitment, service and integrity. I am constantly impressed with how passionate they are about what they do.
I am honored to lead this department.
On this web site you’ll find a wealth of information to help you not only get to know Maine but also to do your part to conserve it for future generations. I hope you explore and enjoy these pages.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of our Maine state park system, and we’re celebrating all year long. Please join us. Return to your local park to see what’s new, and make a point of exploring one or two parks you’ve never visited. You won’t be disappointed.
See you on the trail and out on the water,
Eliza Townsend
Acting Commissioner
