CARRABASSETT VALLEY — On behalf of the High Peaks Initiative, the High Peaks Alliance hosted the second in a series of community engagement sessions with local government officials and community stakeholders Feb. 27 at the Carrabassett Valley Library.

These meetings are funded by the Community Recreation Assistance Recovery grant from the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, emphasizing collaboration and regional planning for outdoor recreation and conservation.

Representatives from towns including Carrabassett Valley, Eustis, Strong, Stratton, Weld and Industry — as well as Franklin County, Maine Huts & Trails, Sugarloaf and various community organizations — participated in discussions. Franklin County Commissioner Bob Carlton was among attendees.

The session provided a platform for in-depth dialogue on outdoor recreation and conservation priorities. Brent West of the alliance presented the State of the High Peaks Report, showcasing how town-level priorities have been integrated into broader regional strategies. The presentation highlighted the importance of incorporating recreation assets into comprehensive plans and using data to guide future planning initiatives, according to a news release from Amanda Laliberte with the alliance.

Participants also discussed challenges such as maintaining reliable access to recreational areas during winter and improving infrastructure and signage.

Key topics included updates on ongoing projects, such as Eustis’s $450,000 groomer barn initiative designed to house $1.25 million worth of equipment and Carrabassett Valley’s efforts to develop world-class mountain biking trails. Concerns were raised about public access to Webb Lake in Weld, along with opportunities to improve access to Flagstaff Lake for water recreation and camping.

Additionally, participants explored potential regional collaboration opportunities, including leveraging Franklin County’s TIFF program and advocating for increased state support for the snowmobile industry.

The alliance will continue hosting these community meetings as part of its ongoing efforts to support local conservation and recreation initiatives.

For more information about the alliance and its initiatives, visit highpeaksalliance.org or follow it on Facebook and Instagram.