Scientific Forest Management Area
"It has long been my purpose to create in our forests a large area wherein the State may practice the most modern methods of forest control reforestation and production."
"I want this township to become a showplace for those interested in forestry, a place where a continuing timber crop can be cultivated, harvested, and sold, where reforestation and scientific cutting will be employed, an example and an inspiration to others. What is done in our forests today will help or harm the generations who follow us."
Percival P.Baxter, 1955
What is the "Scientific Forest Management Area"?
With the establishment of Baxter State Park, Percival Baxter demonstrated his commitment to sound land stewardship. His commitment included not only the preservation of wild lands, but the application of "scientific" management to the forests of Maine. Travels throughout the world convinced Governor Baxter that sound forest management was both possible and of vital importance to the state. The Scientific Forest Management Area (SFMA) was provided by Percival Baxter to offer an accessible example to the people of the state of Maine of long-term forest management, "a showplace for those interested in forestry, a place where a continuing timber crop can be cultivated, harvested, and sold.."'