Maine is proudly known as the Pine Tree State—an identity rooted in our deep connection to the forest.
Historically, the timber harvested from Maine’s vast woodlands provided essential resources for a growing nation, fueling industries such as shipbuilding and papermaking. This legacy began in regions like Piscataquis County, where the wealth of old-growth trees attracted early settlers and laid the foundation for a thriving forest-based economy.

Forestry, timber harvesting, and wood products manufacturing played a central role in the county’s early development and remain vital economic sectors today. Companies such as Hardwood Products and Puritan Medical Products, Lumbra Hardwood Inc., Pleasant River Lumber, JSI Fixtures, and Dove Tail Bat demonstrate the continued strength of our wood basket and its capacity to support a wide range of modern industries. With advancements in technology, innovative uses for timber and fiber, and a commitment to sustainable harvesting, the future of this sector is both dynamic and promising.

The success of the forest products industry also helped pave the way for growth in manufacturing across the county. From early lumber and textile mills to tanneries and wood product factories, large-scale manufacturing has long had a presence in the region. While the industry has evolved over time, manufacturing remains a key economic driver in Piscataquis County—benefiting from the same technological innovation and resourcefulness as the forest industry. Today, the county is home to a diverse mix of manufacturers, ranging from boutique producers to large-scale operations, all contributing to a resilient and growing local economy.

Rail service, the forest products industry, and slate quarrying once formed the economic backbone of Piscataquis County.
In 1868, the Bangor and Piscataquis Railroad began operations with a mission to transport harvested timber and slate from the interior of the county to the port city of Bangor. As rail infrastructure expanded in the late 1800s, eastern Piscataquis County experienced significant growth. Towns like Brownville and Milo quickly prospered, thanks to the establishment of active rail yards that became hubs of local economic activity.

Over time, the fortunes of rail followed the ups and downs of the industries it served—experiencing both booms and downturns. Yet even today, rail remains a critical employer and infrastructure asset in the region. Both the Central Maine and Quebec Railway (CMQR) and the Canadian Pacific (CP) continue to operate in Piscataquis County, providing essential freight services and maintaining active yards.

One of the most notable facilities is the Derby Rail Yard, home to a state-of-the-art railcar wash facility—one of the only such facilities on the East Coast. CMQR has made significant investments in the region, not only by upgrading rail infrastructure, but also through direct capital improvements that have expanded the Derby Yard’s capabilities and economic impact.

Maine runs on small businesses—and nowhere is that more true than in Piscataquis County.
Statewide, 20% of businesses have fewer than 100 employees, and about 57% of Maine’s workforce is employed by a small business. Key sectors like health care, construction, retail, and accommodations/food service are powered by small, locally owned operations.

In Piscataquis County, the impact is even greater—between 71% and 87% of all jobs are provided by small businesses, one of the highest rates in the state.

When you shop local here, you’re not just making a purchase—you’re supporting your neighbors. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Piscataquis County is home to two 25-bed critical access hospitals—Northern Light C.A. Dean Hospital in Greenville and Northern Light Mayo Regional Hospital in Dover-Foxcroft.

Both hospitals operate a network of health centers throughout the region, making high-quality healthcare accessible across rural Maine. These facilities serve as cornerstones of their communities, offering essential services and competitive employment opportunities in some of the most beautiful and serene parts of the state.

In addition to these hospitals, the county recently welcomed a new Katahdin Valley Health Center in Dover-Foxcroft, further expanding access to comprehensive primary and preventive care. This new facility strengthens the region’s healthcare network and reflects continued investment in rural health infrastructure.

Together, these healthcare providers ensure that residents and visitors alike have access to trusted, local care—supporting both individual well-being and community vitality.

Tourism is a cornerstone of Piscataquis County’s economy, and businesses that serve outdoor enthusiasts are among the largest independent employers in the region.
From guiding services and gear shops to lodging, dining, and recreation providers, these businesses play a vital role in supporting local communities and drawing visitors year-round.

The natural beauty of Piscataquis County is unmatched. From the remote tranquility of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, to the expansive shores of Moosehead Lake, and the rugged trails of the 100-Mile Wilderness and Gulf Hagas—“The Grand Canyon of Maine”—our region is filled with breathtaking destinations and outdoor experiences.

Opportunities for adventure abound. Whether it’s hiking, paddling, biking, snowmobiling, fishing, or wildlife watching, there are countless ways to explore and enjoy the outdoors here. Every season brings new ways to connect with nature—and new reasons for visitors to return.