Maine Island Trail Association

The Maine Island Trail Association is a membership organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the wild islands of coastal Maine. Founded in 1988 to administer the Maine Island Trail, MITA embraces the powerfully simple idea that care of the islands can be left to the users of these treasured and fragile places. Our ability to turn island users into island stewards is why islands visited by members tend to be in better shape than those left alone.

Our members include paddlers, sailors, motorboaters, and land-lubbers alike. They form a powerful force of people actively committed to the care and protection of the wild islands of Maine. We hope you’ll join us and the many like-minded people who keep the Trail, and the islands, alive and well. MITA members receive comprehensive information about the Trail, helpful tips for safe and responsible boating, and guidelines for low-impact recreation. Our members also support ongoing stewardship and education efforts aimed at preserving Trail sites and experiences for future generations.

Doug Welch, Executive Director

Doug has been honored to serve as MITA’s Executive Director since 2007. He cannot imagine a more worthwhile and enjoyable mission to pursue. Previously he was a Vice President with Youth Alternatives in Portland. Before that he spent five years with the Island Alliance – a nonprofit organization charged with developing programs in the new Boston Harbor Islands National Park. Doug also has eight years of experience consulting to nonprofit economic and community development programs. He has a Masters in Public Policy from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and a BA from Wesleyan University in Connecticut. He lives in Portland with his wife Caitlin, daughter Genevieve, and Corgi Jack. Since joining MITA, Doug has perfected the first 180 degrees of his Eskimo roll and his technique for bending powerboat propellers.