Maine WoodNet, Business for the Northern Forest, and the Northern Forest Center have partnered with a dozen arts, crafts and economic development groups to produce a regional publication promoting handmade crafts and services from northern Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York.

Participants in this regionwide effort, called “HandMade in the Northern Forest,” are surveying artisans, crafters, galleries, museums and store managers who sell handmade objects to be included in a promotional guidebook for residents and visitors that will be published in 2003.

Surveys can be filled out online, before Sept. 20, at www.businessnorthernforest.org/HandMade.html or by calling (802) 223-5256, Ext. 10, or by e-mail at scarrier@bninfo.org.

“Handcrafted items have traditionally played an important role in rural areas. Today we are again turning to the small workshops to boost our northern economies,” said Chris Krauss, coordinator of Maine WoodNet. “When implemented, this project will promote the cultural heritage of the four-state region and help small business to sell locally made goods and services.”

HandMade objects include items such as pottery, textiles, wood and food products. HandMade experiences include activities such as festivals, classes or museums.

For information, call 645-2400, e-mail info@mainewoodnet.org or visit www.mainewoodnet.org.