What are the Priority Coastal Resources for MCPI's Goal 1 and how were they determined?

One of the guiding principals of the MCPI is to build on, rather than duplicate, the work of existing conservation efforts. Therefore, the conservation plans and projects of relevant federal, state, and coast-wide land conservation entities were analyzed for coastal land conservation needs and priorities. As a result of this effort, the following resources were identified as priorities for conservation efforts along Maine’s coast:

Habitat –

For habitat, important conservation lands maintain healthy plant and animal populations in protected wetlands and riparian areas, important habitat for rare and endangered species, and large undeveloped blocks of land. The coastal focus areas of statewide significance identified by Beginning with Habitat will be adopted by the Maine Coast Protection Initiative.

Coastal Access –

For working access to coastal and marine resources, important conservation lands protect access to tidal waters for people who make their living from traditional water-dependent uses, as defined in Maine’s shoreland zoning regulations, and/or who depend on this access to and from marine resources to earn a living.

For recreational access to coastal and marine resources, important conservation lands protect access to and along tidal waters for people who participate in recreational activities.

Scenic and Cultural Features -

For scenic and cultural features, important conservation lands protect the inherent beauty of natural resources, safeguard scenic viewsheds, represent the unique history and characteristics of coastal communities, and evoke community emotion and commitment.