Aroostook Outdoor News: 5.28.15 edition

#WelcomeSummer! #offugo heats up with 66 events in 5 weeks. #whosaystheresnothingtodoaroundhere?

In this edition: 1) FREE fishing in Maine this weekend. 2) A youth fishing derby in Presque Isle. 3) Fifteen (yes, 15!) other outdoor events this weekend! Plus lots more! offugo…

Thursday, May 28
Gathering of the Scots Festival Scottish Athletics Skills Workshop, Perth-Andover, NB
5:30 p.m. (Atlantic) at Veteran’s Field, Perth. Open to all! Try stone toss, hammer throw, weight for height, caber toss. Supervised by professional instructors. “Com’on, dunna’ be a-frade…come and be Scottish for the weekend!” Contact Dirk Bishop at (506-273-3102) FMI

Friday, May 29
Woodie Wheaton Land Trust Seminar: Wild Brook Trout, Forest City
Retired Maine fisheries biologist discusses genetic sampling of wild brook trout, stream surveys, habitat restoration, standardization of fishing regulations, renewal of hatchery stock. 7:30-9:00 p.m. at WWLT Center. Contact Patty Michaud (207-448‐3250) or pattywwlt@gmail.com FMI

*Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31
Maine DIF&W Free Fishing Weekend, Statewide
Any person may fish for free without a license on Maine’s waterways this weekend, except those who have had their license suspended or revoked. All other rules and regulations, including bag and possession limits, apply. Visit www.maine.gov/ifw/fishing/opportunities/index.htm FMI

*Saturday, May 30
in motion Parks & Trails Day Family Fun Run, Florenceville-Bristol, NB
5k or 10k Family Fun Run to help our community get out and enjoy the beautiful trail! Check in: 8:30 a.m. at Northern Carleton Civic Centre. Race start: 9:00 a.m. (all times Atlantic). Cost: $5; pre-registration required with Rec. Dept. Visit www.sentiernbtrail.com FMI

*Saturday, May 30
Annual Greater Houlton Christian Academy Bike-a-thon, Houlton
Start times: 60/100-mile: 7:00 a.m., 20-mile: 8:00 a.m., 10-mile/2-mile/5-mile walk: 9:00 a.m. Awards/Public Spaghetti Supper at Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum: 4:30 p.m. Admission by donation; registered participants eat free! Proceeds support GHCA Annual Fund. Contact GHCA (207-532-0736) FMI

*Saturday, May 30
March of Dimes March for Babies, Houlton
Registration: 9:00 a.m. at Houlton Hannaford, Walk start: 10:00 a.m. Join family teams, company teams, people walking with friends for a great cause: making a difference for real families right here in our community. Sign up, raise money to help more moms have full-term pregnancies and healthy babies. Contact Houlton Hannaford (207-532-2605) FMI

*Saturday, May 30
15th Annual Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs Youth Fishing Derby, Presque Isle
8:00 a.m.-Noon at Mantle Lake Park. Open to all youth 3-15 years; must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: FREE! Special prizes for special catches. Lunch, prizes for all registered contestants; fishing gear available. Dunk tank with PIPD Chief Irwin. Contact Curtis Lewin at (207-768-8008) FMI

Saturday, May 30
Woodie Wheaton Land Trust Booming Out Ground Bird Watching, Forest City
Join naturalist Marion Bates as we look for migrating and nesting warblers, rare Black-Backed woodpeckers, and Scarlet Tanagers. 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at WWLT Center. Bring lunch. Contact Patty Michaud (207-448‐3250) or pattywwlt@gmail.com FMI

Saturday, May 30
CompetitorME Rachael’s Run 5k Run/Walk, Presque Isle
This is not a race; proceeds support Rachael Frinder Gagnon’s medical bills and Little Pink Houses of Hope. Registration: 8:00 a.m. at UMPI’s Gentile Hall. Run start: 9:00 a.m. First 50 registrants get a t-shirt. Visit www.runsignup.com/Race/CT/Marlborough/RachaelsRun FMI

Saturday, May 30
The County Walk Towards a Cure, Island Falls
9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. 4k Walk/5k Run fundraiser to benefit Sarah’s House of Maine and Bridge to Hope, Houlton. Contact Ruth Frasier ifrec@fairpoint.net FMI

*Saturday, May 30
Stormdale Canoe Poker Run, Hartland, NB
Run Becaguimac Stream from Pole Hill bridge to Stormdale Covered Bridge; collect cards at designated stops. Registration: 10:30 a.m. (Atlantic). Great opportunity for adults 19 and over to take an adventure down the river; each person must have a life jacket. Visit www.sentiernbtrail.com FMI

Saturday, May 30
Gathering of the Scots Festival Falconry Demonstration, Perth-Andover, NB
For the first time in New Brunswick, the GOS Highland Games is offering a birds of prey flight demonstration in addition to traditional Highland activities. Show times: 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. (Atlantic) at Festival Grounds, Perth. Open to all! Contact Dirk Bishop at (506-273-3102) FMI

Saturday, May 30
Central Aroostook Humane Society Paws For The Cause Walk, Presque Isle
Registration: 10:00 a.m. at CAHS, 26 Cross Street. 2-mile walk start: 10:30 a.m. Rain or shine. Cost: $5 for those without pledges; includes refreshments, dog wash, prizes. Rabies Clinic: 11:00 a.m.; $10 fee. Contact Gloria Towle (207-551-6966) or gloriatowle@gamail.com FMI

*Saturday, May 30
Guided Historic Walking Tour, Houlton
10:00 a.m. at Aroostook County Historical and Art Museum, 109 Main St. Museum Director Leigh Cummings will lead an hour-long tour of Houlton. Museum open for browsing and tours immediately following tour. Wear comfortable shoes. Cost: Free! Contact Houlton/Hodgdon RSU 29/70 Adult Education (207-521-3100 x5) FMI

Saturday, May 30
Malcolm Science Center Spring Open House, Easton
11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Join us for hands-on science activities, planetarium shows, model rocket launches, and University of Maine ocean touch tank demonstration. Contact Malcolm Science Center (207-488-5451) or info@francismalcolmsciencecenter.com FMI

Saturday, May 30
Micmac Service Unit Bicycle Safety Rodeo, Presque Isle
1:00 p.m. at 8 Northern Road. For school-aged children; bicyclist safety course, bike safety checks, free helmets for kids that do not own a helmet. Contact Micmac Service Unit (207-764-7219) FMI

Saturday, May 30
Meduxnekeag River Association Warbler Workshop, Woodstock, NB
1:00 p.m. (Atlantic time) at L.P. Fisher Public Library. Birder Grant Milroy will present images and vocalizations of the 23 different species of warbler known to breed in NB. Contact Meduxnekeag River Association (506-328-8227) or meduxnekeag@nb.aibn.com or visit www.meduxnekeag.org FMI

Sunday, May 31
12th Annual Alzheimer Society of NB Walk for Memories, Woodstock, NB
Join families and friends across New Brunswick and walk with a purpose! Registration: Noon at Riverside Court. Walk start: 1:00 p.m. (all times Atlantic). Contact Alzheimer Society of NB (800-664-8411) or info@alzheimernb.ca FMI

*Friday, June 5
in motion Parks & Trails Day Trail Walk, Nackawic, NB
8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. (Atlantic) at Nackawic Waterfront Walking Trail. Residents, neighbours, students encouraged to get back to nature and enjoy a physical activity that is outdoors, easy to do, and done in a pristine environment. Visit www.sentiernbtrail.com FMI

*Friday, June 5
Walking Trail Inauguration, Saint-Joseph-de-Madawaska, NB
1:00 p.m. (Atlantic) at Saint-Joseph Community School. People of all ages welcome; the activity is to inaugurate a walking trail created by students of the school. Visit www.sentiernbtrail.com FMI

*Friday, June 5
PI Historical Society Guided Historic Fairmount Cemetery Tour, Presque Isle
1.5-hour guided walking tour; discuss origins, Victorian influences, 30 local historic figures. Many hills on tour. Meet at 5:30 p.m. at Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce. Cost: $5; reservations required. Contact Kimberly Smith (207-762-1151) or visit www.pihistory.org FMI

Saturday, June 6
Northern Maine Bird Festival, Limestone
6:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge. Features: guided bird walks, netting and banding demonstrations, hands-on activities for kids, plus a special Birds Acre presentation, “Owls of Maine” at 11:00 a.m. Cost: FREE! Contact Bill Sheehan thearoostookbirders@gmail.com FMI

Saturday, June 6
Meduxnekeag River Association Bird Walk, Woodstock, NB
9:00 a.m. (Atlantic time) at Meduxnekeag Valley Nature Preserve at Wilson Mountain, 260 Red Bridge Rd. 35 species identified last year including a close encounter with a Barred Owl. Contact Meduxnekeag River Association (506-328-8227) or meduxnekeag@nb.aibn.com or visit www.meduxnekeag.org FMI

Saturday, June 6
Plaster Rock Bicycle Rodeo, Plaster Rock, NB
10:00 a.m.-Noon (Atlantic) at Plaster Rock Tobique-Plex. For youth ages 5-12. Bring bike and helmet for inspection, take part in our obstacle course, learn safety tips, get snacks, refreshments, certificates, and prizes! Contact Village of Plaster Rock Recreation and Parks Department (506-356-6075) FMI

*Saturday, June 6
Plaster Rock in motion Parks & Trails Day, Plaster Rock, NB
10:00 a.m. at Plaster Rock Tourist Park: Sadler Nature Trail Walk and Foliage Identification. Noon at Roulston Lake Pavilion: Twin Rivers Archery Club Archery Clinic (all times Atlantic). Visit www.sentiernbtrail.com FMI

*Saturday, June 6
Community Walk & Medicinal Herbs Teaching, Tobique First Nation, NB
10:00 a.m. (Atlantic) at Mud-Waas Park. Walk local community trails; pick and learn about ‘medicines’ and herbs. Healthy picnic after the walk. Visit www.sentiernbtrail.com FMI

*Saturday, June 6
Community Walk and Flower Seed Planting, Perth-Andover, NB
1:00 p.m. (Atlantic) at Perth-Andover Village Office. Celebrate International Trails Day with Perth-Andover Rec. Walk the trails and scatter wildflower seeds to beautify the trail system. Youth scavenger hunt and plant/tree identification info. Visit www.sentiernbtrail.com FMI

*Sunday, June 7
Descent of the St. Francis River, Pohénégamook, QC
Travel by kayak or canoe on the boundary between Canada and the United States to Rivière-Bleue, along the scenic and historic Border Route. Registration required. Contact Village of Pohénégamook (418 859-2222 ext. 107) or visit www.routedesfrontieres.com FMI

Sunday, June 7
Community in motion 1k/5k Walk to Fight Arthritis, Hartland, NB
The Walk to Fight Arthritis stretches across Canada to help the over 4.6 million Canadians who live with arthritis every day. Registration: 1:00 p.m. at Hartland Covered Bridge. Walk start: 2:00 p.m. (all times Atlantic). Contact: Donna Clark (506-452-7191 ex. 103) or frederictonwalktofightarthritis@arthritis.ca FMI

Saturday, June 13
Woodstock Recreation Colour Me Neon 5k, Woodstock, NB
Registration: 9:00 a.m. at AYR Motor Centre. Race start: 10:30 a.m. (all times Atlantic). Cost: $20/adult, $15/youth 10 & under, pre-reg.; add $5/person race day. Proceeds to Woodstock Recreation Youth Zone Program. Contact Jenna Bull (506-323-9090) jennabbull@gmail.com FMI

Saturday, June 13
Miller Fun 5k, Plaster Rock, NB
Registration: 10:00 a.m. at Roulston Lake Tourist Park Pavilion. Race start: 11:00 a.m. (all times Atlantic). Cost: $10/youth, $25/adult, $35/family or through pledge collection. Contact Debbie Miller (506-356-2284) or dc.miller@hotmail.com FMI

*Saturday, June 13
Allagash Tails Book Talk, Fort Fairfield
Noon at Fort Fairfield Public Library. Author Tim Caverly will discuss Maine’s Wild and Scenic River and his book Allagash Tails. Look for the little red canoe and stop in and say hi! Visit www.allagashtails.com FMI

*Saturday, June 13
10th Annual New England Outdoor Center Reel Paddling Film Festival, Millinocket
5:30 p.m. at River Driver’s Restaurant. International film tour presenting world’s best whitewater, sea kayaking, canoeing, SUP, paddling lifestyle films of the year. Cost: $12/advance tickets, $15/at the door, Free/16 & under; includes digital subscriptions to four paddlesports magazines. Contact Jami Bonitz (207-723-5438 x1007) or visit www.neoc.com FMI

Tuesday, June 16
Woodie Wheaton Land Trust Mud Lake Falls Canoe Trip, Forest City
Paddle from Spednic Landing to the Booming Out Ground. 9:00 a.m. at WWLT Center. Bring canoe/kayak, lunch; traditional wood/canvas canoes can be reserved. Contact Patty Michaud (207-448‐3250) or info@woodiewheaton.org FMI

Tuesday, June 16
Spring Summit Run: 2015-NT, Baxter State Park
Run to the top of North Traveler (NT) Mountain; 2.5 miles, 2000 foot elevation gain; scramble down to South Branch Pond Campground; drinks and grub will most likely be waiting! Camping an option the night before. Hosted by Donald Eno. Visit www.facebook.com/events/1500535286861000 FMI

*Saturday, June 20
2nd Annual Greater Grand Isle Canoe/Kayak Race, Grand Isle
10 mi.; Madawaska to Grand Isle. Registration: 6:00 a.m. at Madawaska boat landing, next to Central Building Supply. Race start: 8:00 a.m. Cost: $15/adult, $7/youth under 18, $25/family boat of 4+; first 100 registrants receive a t-shirt. Contact Grand Isle General Store (207-895-3311) FMI

Saturday, June 20
Rally in the Valley Mountain Bike Festival, Fort Kent
8:00 a.m. at Fort Kent Outdoor Center. For kids of all ages. Pre-registrations receive free helmet, water bottle, cool t-shirt! Cost: $5; includes bag lunch, all participants present eligible to win new mountain bike! Contact Gail Lamarr (207-834-1459) or gail.lamarr@nmmc.org FMI

Sunday, June 21
SW Collins Co. 5k Run/Walk, Caribou
Aroostook Musterds Challenge Series Race #3. Registration: 8:30 a.m. Start times: Kids’ Fun Run: 9:00 a.m.; 5k Walk: 9:45 a.m.; 5k Run: 10:00 a.m. First 75 registrants receive t-shirt. Contact Leslie Jackson (207-496-6723) or lesliej@swcollins.com FMI

Sunday, June 21
Le Petit Sault 30/60 MTB Endurance Race, Edmundston, NB
20k, 40k, 60k mountain bike races. Registration: 9:00 a.m. Race start: 10:30 a.m. (all times Atlantic). Great prizes, handmade sprocket trophies. Cost: $35; non-licensed racers must pay $10 day license fee. Canteen services, 3 feed stations. Contact Marco Levesque (506-735-0918) or mdlque@hotmail.com FMI

*Sunday, June 21
Maine State Parks and Lands Maine Resident’s Day, Statewide
On Father’s Day from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., all vehicles bearing Maine license plates are allowed free entrance to Maine state parks and historic sites; does not apply to Baxter State Park and some other facilities. Contact Aroostook State Park (207-768-8341) FMI

*Thursday, June 25
Woodie Wheaton Land Trust State of the Fishery Seminar, Forest City
7:30-9:00 p.m. at WWLT Center. Maine DIF&W regional biologist to discuss sport fishery of East Grand and Spednic lakes, including habitats of landlocked salmon, brook trout, togue, small-mouth bass, other species of interest. Contact Patty Michaud (207-448‐3250) or info@woodiewheaton.org FMI

*Saturday, June 27
PI Historical Society Guided Historic Downtown Walking Tour, Presque Isle
10:00 a.m.-Noon. This guided two-mile tour begins and ends at the 1875 Vera Estey House Museum, 16 Third Street, and covers over 30 historic sites and individuals. Fee: FREE; $2 donation suggested. Contact Kim Smith (207-762-1151) or visit www.pihistory.org FMI

*Saturday, June 27
Tri Aroostook, Presque Isle
**Cancelled**

Saturday, June 27
Tri Aroostook Kids, Presque Isle
USAT-sanctioned youth triathlon for ages 6-15. Athletes compete as individuals at varying distances based on age; capped at 125 athletes. First of three youth triathlons in a series. Race start: 1:30 p.m. Cost: $20/person. Visit www.competitorme.com FMI

*Saturday, June 27-Sunday, June 28
WMI Wilderness First Aid/CPR Training, Millinocket
Based at Penobscot Outdoor Center, this course is ideal for guides and trip leaders on 1-2 day outings. Cost: $225; includes tuition and course materials. Contact Mike Smith (207-227-0250) or mikes@mainewsc.org FMI

Sunday, June 28
1st Annual Fresh Trails Classic Gentleman’s Race, Stockholm
Coed teams of 4 work and stay together on approx. 50 miles of ATV trails, logging roads, paved roads. Race start: 9:00 a.m. at Eureka Restaurant. Good food pizza, drinks, laughs after the race. Cost: $20/team. First, last place teams win free dinner at Eureka. Visit www.freshtrails.com FMI

*Sunday, June 28
Maple Meadow Farm Fest 5k Milk Run, Mapleton
Easy to moderate 3.5-mile road race through beautiful farm country. Open to all ages. Cost: $20, $10/under 12; includes t-shirt (while they last), goodie bag, finisher’s medal (cow’s ear tag). Contact Jami Badershall jami@drinkmainemilk.org FMI

*Tuesday, June 30-Wednesday, July 1
ACA Swiftwater Rescue Course, Millinocket
Based at Penobscot Outdoor Center, this 2-day course includes hands-on practice time and advanced rescues, and is the most comprehensive training for trip leaders and recreational paddlers alike. Fee: $225. Contact Mike Smith (207-227-0250) or mikes@mainewsc.org FMI

*Sunday, July 5
7th Annual Grand Falls Charity Run, Grand Falls, NB
Distances: 5k/10k; 1k Kids’ Run. Registration: online ONLY. Race kit pick up: 7:30 a.m. Start times: 1k: 8:30 a.m.; 5k/10k: 9:00 a.m. (all times Atlantic) at E.P. Senechal Center. Cost: $15/Kid’s Run; $25/5k & 10k; add $5 after June 28. Contact Julie Dubé (506-479-1882) info@valleyspcalavallee.com FMI

Ongoing Programs:

Sunday Saunter Running Group, Presque Isle
Sundays; 10:00 a.m. at UMPI’s Gentile Hall. Open to all abilities; be ready for an easy run of 30-45 minutes, and bring friends! Contact Jonathan Kelley competitorme@gmail.com FMI

*Guided Bootlegger Trail Hike, Rivière-Bleue, QC
Sundays; fourth Sunday/month at the end of Chemin Brissette at Pied-du-Lac (Long Lake). The Rivière-Bleue Appalachian Hiking Club invites visitors to get acquainted with The Bootlegger trails, which will connect you with exceptional nature, islands, animal, and a magical setting. Cost: Free! Contact Marielle Landry (418-893-2649) or info1@routedesfrontieres.com FMI

NHSC Group Mountain Bike Ride, Presque Isle
Mondays; 6:00 p.m. at Nordic Heritage Center Lodge. 8-12 miles. All abilities welcome. Happy to show visitors our amazing trail system. Contact Tom Chasse (207-694-5222) or tom@bikeboardandski.com FMI

MOJO Monday Meander, Presque Isle
Mondays; 6:00 p.m. at MOJO Outdoor Sports. Easy road bike group ride. Average speed: 14-18 mph for 22 miles. Contact Mark Fullen (207-760-9500) or info@mojooutdoorsports.com FMI

TAMC Community Couch to 5k Program, Presque Isle
Mondays & Wednesdays; 5:00 p.m. Get off the couch; train your body to run or walk in one of many 5k events this summer. Running program: 9 weeks; walking program: 7 wks. Participants invited to take part in Freedom 5k, July 11. Cost: FREE! Contact Sarah Caron (207-768-4169) or scaron@emhs.org or Linda Menard (207-768-4172) or lmenard@emhs.org FMI

Little Musterds Running Camp, Houlton
Mondays & Wednesdays; June 15-July 3, times vary by age group. This 3-week camp will give your child support and encouragement to run their first race. Cost: Grade 3-4: $15/Houlton resident, $22/non-resident; Grade 5–8: $25/Houlton resident, $38/non-resident. Contact Houlton Recreation Department (207-532-1310) FMI

Running 101 for Adults, Houlton
Tuesdays; 4:30 p.m. at the Houlton Rec Center. Start date: June 16. 8-week program will teach safe and proper running; warm-ups, group runs, cool downs, “homework assignments.” Cost: $20/Houlton resident, $30/non-resident; must be 18 years or older. Contact Houlton Recreation Department (207-532-1310) FMI

Tuesday Track Workouts, Caribou
Tuesdays; 5:15 p.m. at CHS. Join runners of all abilities to do predetermined intervals, your own workout, or just run with others and forget the workout. Average distance: 5-9 miles; can be adapted per individual. Contact PJ Gorneault pgorneault@rsu39.org FMI

*Jessome’s Friendly Group Road Bike Ride, Edmundston, NB
Tuesdays; 6:30 p.m. (Atlantic) at Jessome’s parking lot. Different routes/distances from 30k to 60k! Average speed: 25-30 kmh. Contact Marc-André Martin (506 735-6292) FMI

NHSC Women’s Trail Night, Presque Isle
Tuesdays; 6:00 p.m. at Nordic Heritage Center Lodge. May-June. Leaders will take you on hiking, trail running, and mountain biking adventures; beginner and intermediate groups. Equipment rentals available. Visit www.nordicheritagecenter.com FMI

*River Valley Runners Tuesday Fun Run, Woodstock, NB
Tuesdays; 7:00 p.m. (Atlantic) at Woodstock Farm & Craft Market, 220 King Street. Distance: 5k. Pace: Easy. Have fun and share the joy of running! Visit www.facebook.com/groups/rvrunnersnb FMI

NHSC Group Mountain Bike Ride, Presque Isle
Wednesdays; 6:00 p.m. at Nordic Heritage Center Fort Road trailhead. 8-12 miles. All abilities welcome. Happy to show visitors our amazing trail system. Contact Tom Chasse (207-694-5222) or tom@bikeboardandski.com FMI

MOJO Good Times Ride, Presque Isle
Wednesdays; 6:00 p.m. at MOJO Outdoor Sports. Moderate road bike group ride. Average speed: 15-18 mph for 20-30 miles. Contact Mark Fullen (207-760-9500) or info@mojooutdoorsports.com FMI

Village of Perth-Andover Walk in the Park, Perth-Andover, NB
Wednesdays; 6:30–7:30 p.m. (Atlantic) at Perth-Andover Bandstand; weather permitting. Visit www.perth-andover.com FMI

*River Valley Runners Thursday Fun Run, Woodstock, NB
Thursdays; 8:30 a.m. (Atlantic) at Woodstock Farm & Craft Market, 220 King Street. Distance: 5k. Pace: Easy. Have fun and share the joy of running! Visit www.facebook.com/groups/rvrunnersnb FMI

Bike Board and Ski Road Bike Ride, Presque Isle
Saturdays; 7:30 a.m. at BB&S rear entrance behind Northeastland Hotel. 25-35 miles; 1.5-2 hours. Pace: moderate to fast; 16-18 mph early season, 18-20 mph mid-season. Contact Andrew Bouchard (207-551-7027) or andrew@bikeboardandski.com FMI

*River Valley Runners Saturday Fun Run, Woodstock, NB
Saturdays; 8:30 a.m. (Atlantic) at Woodstock Farm & Craft Market, 220 King Street. Distance: 5k. Pace: Easy. Have fun and share the joy of running! Visit www.facebook.com/groups/rvrunnersnb FMI

* = New or updated item(s).