Public Information and Education
The Division of Public Information and Education is part of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The division leads the Department's efforts to inform, educate, and engage the public about Maine's fish and wildlife resources and how they are managed. Through education, outreach, media, and promotional efforts, the division helps people connect with Maine's outdoors and encourages safe and responsible recreation.
Mission
Our mission is to increase public awareness and understanding of the Department's programs and projects, and to provide outreach and education that support safe, responsible, and enjoyable outdoor recreation opportunities for all.
Program Areas
Information Center
The Information Center serves as the Department's central point of contact for the public. Staff at the Augusta headquarters respond to calls Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., helping residents and visitors get the information they need and connecting them to the right people. The team also assists with maintaining and updating the Department's website.
Media and Communications
The division manages media relations and distributes press releases about the Department's work to newspapers, radio, and television. Staff develop and share content through the Department's social media channels and e-mail marketing platform, reaching audiences across the state and beyond.
Maine Wildlife Park
Located in Gray, Maine Wildlife Park welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually and offers educational programs to thousands of students each year. The park provides unique opportunities to learn about Maine's native wildlife, conservation, and habitat protection through exhibits, tours, and special events.
Maine Outdoor Programs
Maine Outdoor Programs is a collection of outdoor educational workshops and courses that provide opportunities for the public to gain or improve skills in a variety of outdoor recreational activities. These programs are offered in multiple formats, including virtual, online, and in-person sessions, and are coordinated and led by MDIFW staff, dedicated volunteers, and partnering organizations.
Workshops and learning opportunities are tailored to different audiences and are open to all experience levels. Whether someone is taking their first steps toward learning a new skill or looking to build on existing experience, Maine Outdoor Programs are designed to be welcoming, hands-on, and engaging for everyone.
Education and Teacher Resources
The division supports educators across the state through workshops, training, and resources such as Project WILD—an award-winning national wildlife and conservation education program. These efforts help teachers integrate Maine's wildlife and conservation topics into their classrooms.
Public Outreach and Promotion
The division promotes Maine's hunting, fishing, and wildlife opportunities both within the state and throughout the Northeast. Staff attend trade shows and organize outreach campaigns to recruit new hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Scholarships funded by the annual moose permit auction help send children to Maine's conservation camps each year.
Creative Services
The division provides photography, videography, graphic design, and display support to other Department divisions. These creative services help communicate the Department's mission through print materials, presentations, videos, and digital content.