Maine ECO BIPOC Network: Coordinating Outdoor Planning for Greater Impact

The ECO BIPOC network invites community members to its next online meeting, Coordinating Outdoor Planning for Greater Impact. This session will bring together BIPOC-led and serving nature-based groups, outdoor organizations, and individuals who spend time outside recreationally—as well as those employed in nature-based careers such as farming, aquaculture, forestry, land conservation, environmental education, and other related fields.

The purpose of this gathering is to explore how coordinated planning can strengthen our collective impact and deepen community engagement across Maine. Participants will also be invited to share what they have planned for this winter and discuss what support, collaboration, or partnership they may need for opportunities being developed for next year.

Whether someone hosts outdoor programs, works professionally in a nature-based field, or simply enjoys hiking, gardening, climbing, fishing, skiing, or any form of outdoor exploration, all levels of experience and engagement are welcome. No formal affiliation with a group is required—interest and enthusiasm for nature-based community engagement are more than enough.

This meeting offers space to connect, brainstorm, and imagine how aligned planning can expand our reach, support one another’s efforts, and create more accessible and meaningful outdoor opportunities for BIPOC communities.

All members of the BIPOC outdoor and environmental community are encouraged to join.

You will receive a Zoom link after registration.

AGENDA

• Welcome and Introductions - Name, pronouns, city/town of residence, your nature-based connection, what has been your primary success and challenge related to your outdoor discipline in 2025?
• Meetup at the Maine Outdoor Economy Summit
• Upcoming Activities, Events, & Goals: December 2025- March 2026
• Planned Activities: April - June 2026
• January Launch of ECO BIPOC Survey
• Kindling Collective Conversation
• Group Priorities

Why Join Us?

• Build Community & Connections: Meet like-minded individuals and industry leaders who share your commitment to equity in the outdoors.
• Learn & Be Inspired: Gain insights from others leading change across Maine.
• Shape the Future: Be part of a movement working to make the outdoors more inclusive, economically empowering, and reflective of BIPOC voices.
• Amplify Your Impact: Whether you’re a professional, student, entrepreneur, or outdoor enthusiast—your ideas and contributions matter.