L+L: Eco-Tourism in the Midcoast: Building a Sustainable Visitor Economy

What is ecotourism? Why is it important? How does it impact us? Who's doing it? And as more visitors are drawn to Maine’s coast, how do we balance growth with preservation, and opportunity with authenticity? Come join the discussion and conversation with our panelists bringing different perspectives on eco-tourism in Maine.

Our panelists include:

• Virginia Shaffer, Lady Oyster & The Parlor. Virginia Shaffer is a food writer, oyster sommelier, and the founder of Lady Oyster Tours & Tastings, Maine’s first oyster culinary tour company, which was globally awarded “Best Rural Culinary Heritage Experience” in 2025 by the World Food Travel Association. Virginia's book, Oyster Society: Adventures with the Shellfishly Motivated, is available for pre-order now.
• Captain Gary Smith, owner and operator of River Run Tours. Since 2018, Captain Gary has shared his lifetime experiences in boating with River Run Tours guests. He is passionate about preserving the beauty of Midcoast Maine’s shorelands and protecting wildlife.

Lunch + Learns are held in generous partnership with First Federal Savings and with support from the Rotary Club of Bath.

All are welcomed to attend! Our neighbors, are generously providing LUNCH. Limited supply available, so come on time!

Union + Co's Lunch + Learns are open dialogues focused on professional & community development topics. We look forward to opening thoughtful and respectful conversations in our space.

Photo Credit: Sam Deeran

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