Experiential Learning

Based at our 175 acre lakefront camp, and using the mountains and lakes of Western Maine as our classroom, Maine Guide School is a one-week immersion in the skills and traditions of the Maine Woods. Building upon the existing skills of each individual, the course will prepare participants with tips and hands-on skills necessary to succeed at the Hunting, Fishing, and Recreation Guides exams. Accommodations will be in a rustic cabin or tents for those who prefer.  Showers and bathroom facilities are available. Upon registration, participants will receive a packet with Maine State regulation books, and other materials for home-study. Since map and compass skills are such an important aspect of the test, we recommend each Maine Guide candidate purchase and read Be Expert with Map and Compass by Bjorn Kjellstrom before arriving for the program. Topics covered in the course include

• Map and Compass

• Boating & Paddling

• Health & Safety

• Lost Person Scenarios 

• Hunting & Fishing

• Backcountry Cooking Menus

• First Aid

• Group Dynamics

• Laws & Regulations

Instructors

Ron Fournier is an avid outdoorsman, a Registered Maine Guide, and father of four.  An experienced outdoor educator and coach, Ron has recently stepped into the role of Camp Director at The Maine Conservation School.  Ron and his wife own and operate their own guide service Orion Outfitters out of West Bethel, Maine where they live in a homestead. 

Ryder Scott is Program Director at The Maine Conservation School.  He has been leading adults and youth on trips and outdoor learning experiences for fifteen years.  He is a certified Wilderness First Responder, a Leave-No-Trace instructor, and an avid paddler, hiker, and backcountry skier.  Ryder and his wife Amy built their house in Greenwood, Maine in 2004.