Discover: The Katahdin Region

DISCOVER THE KATAHDIN REGION HIKING, RAFTING, ARTS & MORE...

WHAT NOT TO MISS

GOING STRONG

HOW AREA LEADERS ARE TAKING STEPS TO BOOST THE LOCAL ECONOMY & ATTRACT NEW EMPLOYERS

CHANGING HANDS

A LONGTIME MILLINOCKET STAPLE IS UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

Aislinn Sarnacki sits on a rock near Baxter Peak of Katahdin. She’s looking out at the ridge between Baxter and Pamola peaks known as Knife Edge.

PHOTO: SAM SCHIPANI | BDN

A Special Advertising Section of the Bangor Daily News • Friday, February 4, 2022

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DISCOVER: THE KATAHDIN REGION • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • February 4, 2022 230 Penobscot Avenue in Millinocket, owned by Our Katahdin, with a new facade completed in early 2021.

KATAHDIN REGION LOOKING

TOWARD THE FUTURE

BY WANDA CURTIS

W

HILE MUCH OF MAINE is

“The two mill sites in particular, Millinocket

Their goal is “to connect all households to sup-

of a network that universally provides fiber-

busy dealing with challenges

and East Millinocket, are talking to several

port business development and opportunities

to-the-premises to every household in the tri-

created by the pandemic, the

business prospects to bolster redevelopment

for entrepreneurism, quality of place improve-

town region were released on January 15, 2021

Katahdin region is looking toward the

efforts at the former mill sites,” said Umphrey.

ments, remote worker attraction, telehealth and

by KRBU and bids were received in March.

future. No strangers to adversity, hundreds of area residents found themselves in dire

educational opportunities,” she said.

FEDERAL FUNDS DISTRIBUTED TO

“The Utility is still reviewing options

According to Van Hook, Tri-town Katahdin

for ownership and financing with all of the

circumstances after the 2008 closure of the

HELP EXISTING BUSINESSES

Regional Broadband Utility is spearheading

new federal dollars available for broadband

Great Northern Paper Mill in Millinocket.

To help existing businesses recover during

and driving the agenda. She said broadband

infrastructure build out,” said Van Hook.

Since that time, they’ve been taking steps to

the pandemic, Umphrey said $1,275,000 of

development

of

“The writing was on the wall about future

boost their economy and to attract new

federal CARES Act funding was distributed

Millinocket, East Millinocket and Medway

funds becoming available for broadband

employers into the area.

in the Katahdin region via the Maine

is being directed by the Katahdin Region

construction projects, so the Utility has

President/CEO of Eastern Maine Devel-

Department of Economic and Community

Broadband Utility (KRBU) board. Their

been

opment Corporation (EMDC) Lee Umphrey

Development and EMDC. EMDC also helped

president, Kyle Leathers, is navigating options

consideration of [their] goals of having 100%

said that the Katahdin region is gaining

several businesses in accessing Payroll

for buildout of fiber broadband in the region.

coverage (connection) in the three towns,

momentum and has lots of potential. He

Protection Plan funds via the United States

said the Penobscot County Commissioners

Small Business Administration.

funded an EMDC position to be embedded

for

the

tri-town

area

diligently

reviewing

options

with

“East Millinocket, Millinocket and Medway

open access so multiple ISPs can operate on

completed an engineering study to design a

the same network and create competition to

fiber to the premise network to work with the

help with affordability to customers, and local

in the community. He explained that in-

EFFORTS TO MAKE BROADBAND

Katahdin Region Broadband Utility (KRBU) to

ownership of the broadband assets. Potential

dividual was charged with leading the ef-

ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE

connect residents and businesses to high speed

funding sources for broadband infrastructure

forts of the Katahdin Region Development

Lucy Van Hook, Community Development

internet,” said Van Hook. “KRBU and the

projects include the individual counties

Board. Part of that effort is to encourage

Director for the nonprofit Our Katahdin,

municipalities are exploring funding options.”

from ARPA funds received, the new Connect

and work collaboratively with other orga-

said a major priority in the area is to make

In addition, Van Hook reported that requests

Maine Authority, and specific federal grant

nizations in the area.

broadband accessible to everyone.

for proposals for construction and operation

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

DISCOVER: THE KATAHDIN REGION • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • February 4, 2022

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As Maine’s largest generator of renewable energy, Brookfield Renewable proudly operates hydro, wind, and storage facilities throughout the state. Our Maine facilities provide more than 840 MW of power, a generation equivalent to powering more than 500,000 homes annually.

Now and into the future, our facilities remain critical in helping Maine meet its carbon emissions targets.

When it comes to environmental stewardship and river restoration, we are committed in our work with state and federal agencies and environmental stakeholders to advance these goals. We operate fish passage facilities on Maine’s largest rivers, including the Penobscot, Kennebec, Androscoggin, and Saco.

Furthermore, we are passionate about the role we play in highlighting the natural beauty and recreational benefits of this great state.

THESE CHALLENGING TIMES GROW THE VALUE OF OUTDOOR RECREATION Did you know? We operate more than 200 recreation sites throughout Maine and provide daily releases from May through Columbus Day for Class 2, 3, and 4 whitewater rafting. Each year thousands of private and commercial paddlers enjoy Maine’s pristine waterways because of these scheduled releases.

In addition, we provide recreational access to some of New England’s best flyfishing locations including the Rangeley Lakes region renowned for their native Brook Trout.

We provide real-time flows and elevations for our facilities via our waterflow website at www.safewaters.com.

Remember, river systems are wonderful resources, but they can be dangerous.

Conditions can change quickly and without notice. While the waters above and below a dam may look safe, conditions below the surface can present serious risks.

Be aware of your surroundings and observe all warning signals, sirens, and barriers. Respect all signage, recreation rules, and be a good environmental steward wherever your next outdoor journey takes you!

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DISCOVER: THE KATAHDIN REGION • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • February 4, 2022

7 THINGS TO DO IN THE KATAHDIN REGION

L

OCATED IN THE eastern central portion of Maine and nestled next to Mount Katahdin, the Katahdin Region is a truly unique all-season vacation destination.

Whether you consider yourself a rugged outdoorsman, fan of extreme sports, an arts and culture buff, or just enjoy taking in the sights, a visit to the area won’t disappoint.

While many come simply for the breathtaking views or to scale Mount Katahdin, the area boasts a variety of activities for solo travelers, adventurers and families alike, with hidden gems for those who dare to explore off the beaten path. From skiing and mountain biking to camping and day hikes, there are countless ways to become immersed in Kathadin’s vast outdoor spaces.

Whitewater Adventures Perhaps one of the more underrated gems in the Katahdin Region is its vast network of waterways. The area’s largest river, the Penobscot, has a wild side, making it a go-to for whitewater rafting. For a challenging yet fun rapids adventure, make your way to the New England Outdoor Center (NEOC) which offers full and half-day rafting trips, including routes through the beautiful Ripogenus Gorge, where you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Katahdin.

Wandering Waterways If you’re not much of a thrill-seeker but still want to enjoy the water, a leisurely way to explore the Penobscot is by tubing from Abol Bridge. This family-friendly activity lets you float down the river while also catching glimpses of the mountain. Not a fan of rivers? Head to Daicey or Togue Pond, where you can rent canoes and explore Katahdin’s waterways at your own pace.

BY KATE BIELINSKI The view from Baxter Peak.

PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER BURNS/BDN FILE

Trails for All Another great way to explore the Katahdin Region is by land. The area offers trails of various intensities, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, fat biking, and x-country skiing.

Baxter State Park is one of Maine’s true jewels with a well-developed trail system of its own catering to all skill levels. For those not looking to summit Mount Katahdin, the park has countless trails to explore.

For a moderate hike, Katahdin Stream Falls is a local favorite. Following the Appalachian Trail, this two-mile hike takes you to the base of Mount Katahdin and is especially picturesque in the spring when the snow melts from the mountain’s high peaks.

Nature’s Waterpark For those taking in Baxter State Park during the summer, kids and adults alike will love exploring Ledge Falls, where you can spend the day swimming and sliding down natural waterslides. There isn’t even a need for a hike as this wonder can be found right alongside the road in Medway.

DISCOVER: THE KATAHDIN REGION • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • February 4, 2022

Wildlife Watching It wouldn’t be a trip to the Katahdin Region if you didn’t try to spot the majestic creature Maine is famous for — the mighty moose. While never guaranteed, one of the best ways to find them is out near Sandy Stream Pond, particularly in the early mornings or late evening.

Another great area for wildlife watching is The Katahdin Woods & Waters Scenic Byway, where you’ll find many local residents, including deer, bears, beavers, bald eagles, and loons.

The Arts Scene The Katahdin Region’s uniqueness goes beyond the outdoors, with opportunities to engage in the area’s culture, particularly art. Millinocket is home to many shops and galleries, including North Light Gallery, a must-see for fine art crafted by local Maine artists.

For an even deeper immersion into the arts scene, the Ktaadn Arts Education Center & Gallery hosts an art collective in East Millinocket featuring studio space and classes.

Rent Your Gear If you’re visiting but want to pack light, the Millinocket Library has a gear lending program offering everything from skis and bikes to backpacks and canoes. Medway’s Penobscot River Trails offers free crosscountry ski rentals. And if you stay at outdoor centers like NEOC, you can enjoy complimentary canoe and kayak rentals.

A belted kingfisher perches at the edge of Millinocket Lake. PHOTO: BDN FILE

Swimmers wade into Nesowadnehunk Stream at Ledge Falls. PHOTO: BDN FILE

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DISCOVER: THE KATAHDIN REGION • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • February 4, 2022

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 opportunities

through

the

USDA Re-Connect program and the EDA.” Other broadband improvements in the region, said Van

A MILLINOCKET STAPLE

CHANGES HANDS

BY KATIE SMITH

I

F YOU’VE BEEN to Millinocket, chances are you’ve heard rave reviews about the Appalachian Trail Cafe. New owner Leah

Macolm was a waitress at the Appalachian Trail Cafe for many years before she took ownership of the popular spot located at 210 Penobscot Ave.

“I opened the cafe on July 1 of [2021] after taking over from the previous two ownerships where I had been a waitress for several years in the summer months,” said Macolm.

It had been a dream of hers for a long time. To make it come true, Malcolm decided to leave her six-year teaching career that she loved in order to pursue her new goal of owning the cafe.

“I needed to do it in order to move forward with the dream of opening the cafe back up. I’ve grown to love it since I’ve been working there.”

However, after another teaching position opened up, Malcolm decided to take it on along with the responsibilities of owning the cafe.

“I am now a preschool teacher, a mother of two young boys AND the owner of the Appalachian Trail Cafe!” she says.

The cafe offers soothing, warm dishes like chili fries, corn chowder, Buffalo chicken mac and cheese, and always has delicious daily specials. One peek at the pictures on the Facebook page and your mouth will water.

Feel free to call in a takeout order for those nights you want to stay in — there’s something for the entire family here and the locals will agree. It’s become quite the gathering spot, according to Malcolm.

The cafe has been a staple of the Millinocket region for years with the building being one of the oldest on Penobscot Ave. of its kind. “The building has been a functional restaurant for over 80 years in itself,” says Malcolm.

Though it’s changed hands many times over the years, and has seen lots of different menus, workers and atmospheres, Malcolm says, “One of the things that makes the Appalachian Trail Cafe truly unique is the ceiling which holds the signatures of thru-hikers who have completed the trail over the years. It’s a fun time capsule that has out-of-town patrons returning every year to show off the signature of their trail name.”

While it’s a great place for hikers and out-of-towners, Malcolm says something that really makes the cafe stand out is the amazing customers who come and hang out there regularly — even if they aren’t hikers.

“While paying homage to the beautiful lands we, as residents, have been surrounded by and the way in which people utilize those natural resources. The support of the local community has truly been amazing. It seems that a lot of locals have fond memories of the cafe and want to see the business flourish,” says Malcolm.

Malcolm is thrilled to be the new owner of the cafe and her dream for the future is to keep Millinocket, and the hikers who pass through to fill their bellies, proud.

“My hope is that the cafe continues to thrive under our ownership, supports the hiking community and the outdoorsy, and ensure the cafe remains a staple of the downtown Millinocket community.”

Hook, have included free wifi hotspots in Millinocket, East Millinocket

and

Medway;

A biker rides along a section of the Katahdin Area Trails Loop in the Hammon d Ridge Trail System just outside Millinocket.

PHOTO: BDN FILE

the installation of 1.2 miles of fiber to serve downtown businesses along

businesses but also to make improvements

Penobscot Avenue in Millinocket; as well as

in the area. Some improvements in the

the installation of 24/7 wireless routers at the

area in recent months, said Van Hook,

Millinocket Library to ensure access from

have included a new oncology unit at the

cars outside the building, to be safe and so-

Millinocket Regional Hospital, new bike

cially distanced without losing access.

trails in Millinocket, new athletic fields at Medway Middle School, a new mountain bike

NEW DATA CENTER PLANS TO MOVE INTO FORMER PAPER MILL BUILDING

track in Patten, new campsites at Lunksoos

Last June, Our Katahdin announced that

Monument, and upgrading of Katahdin

Nautilus Data Technologies (a sustainable

Woods and Waters Scenic Byway to a

data center technology company) executed a

National Scenic Byway. She said there is also

99-year lease with the non-profit to locate a data

a new biking and snowshoeing trail behind

center at the site of the former Great Northern

the Stearns High School in Millinocket.

in the Katahdin Woods and Waters National

Paper Mill. Van Hook said Our Katahdin has

Chairman of Millinocket Town Council

moved forward with engineering, permitting

Steven Golieb said there’s a lot to be excited

and ground work to prepare that site for

about for Millinocket and the Katahdin

construction. She reported that Our Katahdin

region. He said the community made the

is in Phase 2 of its infrastructure buildout at

decision to put a strong foot down and step

the 1,400-acre former mill site. That includes

up to the challenges of today’s complex

$8.5 million in improvements to the onsite

global economy.

power grid, data transmission, sewer and water systems, roads and rail.

“Our

town

leadership,

volunteers,

community members and local non-profits

“Our Katahdin is working to expand the

have come together in an outstandingly

potential of Maine’s forest bioeconomy,”

passionate, innovative and creative way,”

said Van Hook. “Economic development

said Golieb. “We’re working together and

is collaborative, and we are working at the

we’re succeeding. I couldn’t be more honored

community, state and national level to build

to be a part of that process.”

relationships that will assist us in attracting

energy, access to clear and cold water, quality

MILLINOCKET HIRES NEW TOWN MANAGER

broadband networks, and abundant raw

In

materials from our vast local forests. All of these

the

benefits are available here in Millinocket. We

Millinocket has a

also hope to create new forest products supply

new town manager.

chains that link Maine’s under-utilized forests

Millinocket native Peter Jamieson assumed

to growing global demand for sustainability.”

the position in January, after serving as

new businesses in the digital, forest and small manufacturing sectors. We are interested in partnering with tenants who require affordable

other town

news, of

economic development director for the

IMPROVEMENTS IN THE AREA

Katahdin region since last spring. He

The Katahdin region is working not only to

previously served as Director of the Katahdin

attract new businesses and sustain existing

Chamber of Commerce.

DISCOVER: THE KATAHDIN REGION • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • February 4, 2022

THE KATAHDIN REGION IS

HELPING MAINE FACE CLIMATE CHANGE

I

COURTESY OF THE NATURE CONSERVANCY

N THE 1950S, Rachel Carson used science to question society’s efforts to control nature. Today, The Nature Conservancy applies that same scientific approach to climate change. It turns out that the very ecosystems threatened by climate change offer some of the most practical solutions to address it. By connecting our lands and freeing our waters, nature’s strength and resilience can be fully supported. And the Katahdin region is playing a leading role.

Take our northern forests. In addition to providing clean water, hosting recreation, and powering our economy with wood products, Maine’s forests capture over three million metric tons of carbon from the atmosphere each year. They also offer critical habitat for wildlife, including many plant and animal species whose populations are moving with the climate. In fact, every ten years, species are shifting their range an average of 11 miles north and 36 feet in elevation—a trend that is expected to accelerate.

TO ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE, WE MUST ACT AT THE SCALE OF NATURE AND CREATE A WORLD WHERE PEOPLE AND NATURE BOTH THRIVE! The Katahdin region also hosts the headwaters of some of the healthiest and most resilient waterways in the eastern U.S. Maine rivers form a 75,000-mile network, supporting biodiversity and providing protection for threatened species. But aging dams and inadequate road crossings block fish and wildlife and put communities at risk of more frequent floods. By restoring free-flowing rivers and streams, we’ll increase the resilience of these networks and foster one of the most connected, intact river systems in the nation.

We have never needed bold, collaborative solutions more than we do right now.

To address climate change, we must act at the scale of nature and create a world where people and nature both thrive! To learn more and join us in this effort, visit nature.org/maine.

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DISCOVER: THE KATAHDIN REGION • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • February 4, 2022