Why We’re Building Demaign

A personal reflection from our founder

I’ve always loved the land. I’m the kind of person who stops to look at bugs, who keeps a mental list of favorite trees, who notices which birds are nesting where each season. I’ve spent years finding joy in the quiet, slow, often-overlooked parts of nature — and I know I’m not alone.

More and more, I see people like me — people who want to hike, forage, birdwatch, or just wander a field for an hour — struggling to find places where they’re allowed to go. They don’t want to trespass. They don’t want to cause harm. But they also don’t want to feel shut out of the natural world.

I started building Demaign because I am the customer.
I know what it feels like to want access, but to not want to impose.
I know what it feels like to search for a place that’s close, beautiful, and peaceful — and to come up empty.

At the same time, I’ve spoken with landowners who care deeply for their land and are open to sharing it, but don’t know how to do that safely, legally, or on their own terms. They don’t want crowds. They don’t want risk. But they’re not opposed to the idea — they just need a better way.

That’s what Demaign is for.

We’re building a platform where landowners can offer access — simply, safely, and with full control. And where nature lovers like me can find new places to explore, respectfully and responsibly.

Because the land should be shared.
Because it’s possible to love a place and still leave it intact.
Because sometimes, all someone needs is a quiet walk and the sound of wind in the grass.

If that resonates with you — welcome. You’re exactly who we’re building this for.

- -Abby