Host: Ron Beard, University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Engineer: Amy Browne
Issue: Community concerns and opportunities
Program Topic: Friends of Acadia and Youth Engagement
Discussion Points:
1. For David… you have been at the helm for just a few months… and I presume you thought about both the organization and what you might contribute prior to your job interview… what would you like to share about that thought process?
2. What is current work of FOA and what factors drive that focus? (visitor use management, Schoodic, etc)
3. What is the connection between the work of FOA and local communities in the region… Night Sky Festival, village connector trails, support for Island Explorer
4. Possible phone interview with Sheridan Steele (dual mission of Acadia (protect natural resources and provide for positive visitor experience… collaboration with FOA in general and interest in youth engagement and creation of technology team)
5. A current focus for the Superintendent, along with many other priorities, is to engage young people… how has FOA supported youth involvement over the years and what lead to the development of Acadia Youth Technology Team… overview of its projects and accomplishments?
6. What are the long term threats and opportunities for Acadia, and how do you imagine FOA playing a role?
7. How do you work with Acadia to set priorities… is that a balancing act, given that FOA is a private, not for profit, with a board of directors, and Acadia is part of the Department of the Interior?
8. What is your favorite Acadia National Park experience, and how does FOA help assure that people continue to have those sorts of opportunities in the future?
Guests by name and affiliation:
A) David MacDonald, President, Friends of Acadia
B) Stephanie Clement, Friends of Acadia
C) Ardrianna McLane, Acadia National Park
D) Sheridan Steele, Superintendent, Acadia National Park 288 8700
Call In Program: Yes