A Green Legacy: MathWorks' $10 Million Gift Transforms Conservation Efforts in Maine's Wilderness

A Monumental Gift for Nature

The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), known for its dedication to outdoor recreation and conservation, has recently made a groundbreaking announcement. Thanks to a generous $10 million donation from MathWorks, the leading developer of mathematical computing software, AMC has successfully acquired the Barnard Forest. This nearly 29,000-acre forest, nestled within Maine's 100-Mile Wilderness, is a haven of globally significant habitat, now permanently safeguarded for future generations.

Accelerating Conservation with Visionary Support

The MathWorks contribution, the second-largest philanthropic gift in AMC's storied history, has not only enabled the purchase of this vital land but also brought the Maine Woods Initiative's total conservation area to an impressive 127,710 acres. This swift action marks a significant leap forward in preserving one of the Eastern United States' most ecologically crucial landscapes. Nicole Zussman, President and CEO of AMC, hailed the donation as 'catalytic,' emphasizing its role in protecting biodiversity, ensuring climate resilience, and offering community opportunities.

More Than Just a Forest

The Barnard Forest is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Home to the last naturally reproducing population of landlocked salmon in Maine, its sprawling landscape features over 70 miles of stream corridors and critical habitats for endangered species like the Atlantic salmon and native brook trout. Under AMC's stewardship, this forest will not only support ecological restoration and climate adaptation efforts but also continue to bolster the local economy through forestry- and recreation-related jobs.

Partnership and Community at the Core

The acquisition of Barnard Forest was a collaborative effort, involving strategic partnerships with The Conservation Fund and The Malone Family Land Preservation Foundation. This synergy of conservation-focused organizations, supported by the initial funding from the Richard King Mellon Foundation and other donors, highlights the power of community and shared vision in achieving significant environmental milestones. Steve Tatko, AMC's Vice President of Land and Conservation, points out the forest's reopening to the public after nearly two decades of closure, ensuring its accessibility for fishing, hunting, and recreational activities, as well as tribal use.

A Legacy of Conservation and Collaboration

This landmark acquisition is a testament to AMC's enduring commitment to conservation, underpinned by a rich history that includes advocacy for the creation of the White Mountain National Forest. With a bold vision for the future, AMC continues to lead by example, fostering a legacy of environmental stewardship and community engagement. MathWorks' significant contribution not only fulfills this vision but sets a precedent for corporate support in large-scale conservation efforts. Jeanne O’Keefe, MathWorks SVP and CFO, reaffirms their commitment to solutions that benefit both people and the planet, highlighting the alignment of their donation with AMC's conservation goals.

To learn more about the impact of this donation and the broader Maine Woods Initiative, visit outdoors.org/MaineWoodsInitiative. Together, AMC, MathWorks, and their partners exemplify how strategic collaboration and visionary support can lead to lasting conservation achievements, protecting our natural world for generations to come.