Northern Maine Community Trails is in the midst of a community fundraising campaign honoring the life of local forester Hugh Violette, with all donations matched dollar-for-dollar up to $22,300 through June 5.
The matching challenge was established by Hugh’s parents, Dennis and Holly Violette, who chose to support Northern Maine Community Trails because they believe the organization reflects the values and outdoor experiences that meant so much to their son.
“We chose to support this organization because of its positive recreational impact in the Presque Isle area,” said Dennis and Holly Violette in a statement supporting the campaign. “Our son Hugh worked as a forester in the Ashland area and was very much aware of the value of undeveloped land both for its environmental impact and recreational possibilities. Hugh was born in Penobscot County, but he was a “County” boy at heart. We hope the Hugh Violette Matching Fund will help reach the financial goals needed to preserve this land for the enjoyment of the public.”
Hugh Violette, a graduate of the University of Maine forestry program and professional forester in Aroostook County, built his life around the forests, trails and outdoor spaces of northern Maine. Friends and family remember him as adventurous, kind and deeply connected to the land and people around him. He enjoyed snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, hiking, mountain biking and hockey, and built a log cabin at Fish Lake as a teenager.
The fundraising effort officially began at the end of April on Arbor Day, a date organizers say felt especially fitting given Hugh’s lifelong connection to the forest. Every dollar donated before June 5 will be matched, with the goal of raising a total of nearly $45,000 to support the future of Northern Maine Community Trails. As of May 23, the organization is more than halfway to their goal, with just under $10,000 needed to unlock the full match.
“This is about preserving a place where people can experience the same connection to nature that Hugh loved so deeply,” said Heidi Bartley, Northern Maine Community Trails board member, volunteer coordinator and community ski coach. “Whether it’s a quiet walk in the woods, skiing fresh trails, mountain biking flowy singletrack or snowshoeing under a full moon, these spaces matter to the health and vitality of our community.”
Northern Maine Community Trails, a nonprofit organization that purchased the former Nordic Heritage Outdoor Center in December 2025, is working to secure long-term nonprofit ownership and operation of the trail system and lodge. The property was purchased for $1 million, with additional fundraising efforts underway to support both acquisition costs and ongoing operations.
Funds raised through the campaign will help maintain public access to trails and outdoor programming while supporting the long-term sustainability of the facility.
Northern Maine Community Trails offers year-round programming including hiking, mountain biking, Nordic skiing, youth programs, nature-based activities and community events. All donors to the campaign will receive a 2026 family membership.
Donations in memory of Hugh Violette can be made through June 5, 2026. Contributions are tax deductible as permitted by law. For more information or to donate, visit nmctrails.org.
Northern Maine Community Trails is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to maintaining and expanding access to outdoor recreation opportunities in northern Maine through trails, conservation and community programming. The organization operates the former Nordic Heritage Outdoor Center in Presque Isle.
