"It is interesting to note that in my formal letter to Governor Gardiner in 1931, when my first gift was about 6,000 acres, I said 'I expect some day to see my ambition realized.' (Laws of Maine 1931). This brings to an end an interesting incident in Maine history."
– Percival P. Baxter, 1955
Friends of Baxter State Park is an independent citizen group working to preserve, support, and enhance the wilderness character of Baxter State Park in the spirit of its founder, Governor Percival Baxter.
We support a philosophy of wilderness in which resources are primary and recreation is secondary. This philosophy is based on the Deeds of Trust by which Baxter State Park was conveyed to the State of Maine by Governor Percival P. Baxter, supported by other Baxter writings and speeches, and informed by the respected voices of others in wilderness preservation.
This philosophy includes:
- preserving the natural order for its own sake, set apart in perpetuity, and unspoiled by negative human impact
- protecting natural resources
- managing human presence so it will be in harmony with the natural environment
- providing opportunities for persons to get away for a time in order to gain perspective and insight in a "forever wild" setting
We are committed to this philosophy in developing our short- and long-range goals and actions.
Our Objectives:
- We encourage others to understand and embrace this philosophy of wilderness by providing programs and educational materials on Baxter State Park's unique resources, values, and wild character to Park visitors, government decision-makers, those in the private sector whose decisions affect the Park, and the general public.
- We endeavor to bring people together to share opinions, ideas, and convictions and to work for the good of Baxter State Park.
- We strive to represent the Park's resources and values through strong, consistent, and informed advocacy.
- We work with Park Staff to develop means and opportunities for our members to participate directly in stewardship of the Park.
