Dear Friend of NRCM, We’ve reached an important step toward our goal of protecting the special character of the Moosehead Lake region, and I wanted to share the news with you. Yesterday, the Land Use Planning Committee (LUPC) began discussing a proposed “Moosehead Region Planning Package” that, as drafted, would significantly reduce the risk of sprawling development in the region, while benefiting the economy and protecting the exceptional natural character of this significant region of Maine. The proposed rezoning changes: - Avoid sprawl by concentrating new development, creating six new development zones adjacent to existing town centers or commercial areas, including the ski area;
- Scale back development around Lily Bay Township, which had been a target for massive development in the original plan proposed by Plum Creek in 2009; and
- Make development further from town and near or around smaller lakes less likely.
To learn more: Though there is still room for improvement, this is encouraging news, but it’s not final yet! The LUPC will collect another round of public comment before finalizing the plan by the end of the year. I’ll continue tracking this process and let you know when and how you can weigh in when the time comes. Sincerely,  Melanie Sturm
NRCM Forests & Wildlife Director | 
