AUGUSTA – The Maine Department of Conservation has a couple of gift ideas for those looking to surprise outdoor enthusiasts this holiday season.

First, season passes to Maine’s state parks and historic sites are on sale for 2008.

The price is $30 for individual passes or $60 for a season vehicle pass.

“We know that people love their state parks and historic sites,” said DOC Commissioner Patrick K. McGowan. “Each year, more than two million visitors come to the parks for recreation and great family fun. Why not make those visits easier by purchasing a season pass for yourself or your family?”

The Bureau of Parks & Lands manages 47 state parks, historic sites and river corridors.

Passes are available by mail, phone or on the Internet. Write to Department of Conservation, Attn: Charlene Daniels, 22 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0022, call 287-2209, or go to www.mainestateparkpass.com.

Checks should be made payable to Treasurer, State of Maine.

Another gift idea from the DOC: A copy of Northrunner, the department’s video documentary about the Allagash.

Northrunner illustrates the history of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway from its creation in 1966 to the present.

McGowan, along with Andrew Collar and Kyle Hockmeyer, created the video, which explores the rich tradition of the region and gives voice to many of the people who call the river home.

To submit an item for publication in the Outdoor Notebook, send e-mail to jholyoke@bangordailynews.net, fax to 990-8092 or mail information to Outdoor Notebook, Bangor Daily News, PO Box 1329, Bangor, Maine, 04402-1329.