Take Pride in Acadia Day

Help “put the carriage roads to sleep” for the winter during Friends of Acadia’s annual Take Pride in Acadia Day on Nov. 4!

Always held on the first Saturday of November, Take Pride in Acadia Day attracts enthusiastic volunteers of all ages to rake leaves and clear drainage ditches along miles of carriage roads in preparation for the cold weather.

The well-coordinated volunteer effort focuses on areas where clogged drainage ditches and culverts could result in significant damage to road surfaces during the freeze-and-thaw cycles of a coastal Maine winter. This work is vital to the park’s ability to keep the carriage roads in pristine condition.

Whether you are a seasoned raker or this is your first time, everyone is welcome to participate! This year’s event will follow a “hybrid” model with groups meeting out in the field at their assigned work sites at the beginning of the day and coming together in the afternoon for lunch.

Registration is full!

This year’s registration is limited due to construction at Park Headquarters (which limits parking capacity). We can’t wait to rake with those of you who’ve registered this year and look forward to returning to bigger capacity next year!
 

Please email or call Nikki Burtis, Friends of Acadia’s Stewardship Coordinator, with any questions: nikki@friendsofacadia.org or (207) 370-7938

How do I sign up?
Registration opens Oct. 2, 2023. You’ll fill out a form on this page to register.

When does registration close?
Registration will close on Oct. 26, 2023.

How will I know where to go on Nov. 4?
Once you have signed up you will receive an automatic confirmation email. As we get closer to the event, Nikki Burtis, Friends of Acadia’s Stewardship Coordinator, will be in touch about preferences for section assignments and will then give you your section assignment. Your section assignment will tell you where to go on Nov. 4 to meet up with your section leader and receive supplies as well as further instructions.

What do I need to bring?
A positive attitude, a reusable water bottle, closed toed shoes, and appropriate clothing for the weather! Rakes, tarps, gloves, water, and a light snack will be provided by your section leader once you arrive.

What’s the schedule for the day? (When do we get to celebrate with cider and chili?!)
You’ll meet at your designated location at 8:30 a.m. and begin removing leaves until you’ve finished your section, get tired, or stop around 11:30 a.m., whichever comes first. You’ll then head to Park Headquarters (567 Eagle Lake Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609) for lunch, camaraderie, and speakers!

Who do I get in contact with if I want to be a section leader or if I have a group that wants to participate?
If you have a group that is larger than 10 participants or you want to be a section leader please email Nikki, nikki@friendsofacadia.org

Any further questions?

Please call or email Nikki Burtis, nikki@friendsofacadia.org, 207-288-3934.