Protecting Maine's Environment

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Explore Maine

Summer in Maine is famously short. We want to take advantage of every glorious day. In preparation for it, we pull together our Explore Maine publication, with the goal of inspiring you to get out and discover new and exciting places in Maine’s environment—this year's focus is on federal lands across the state. You can also find reviews of books by NRCM supporters, information about outdoor recreation discounts, and even a fun Summer Jumble puzzle!

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For Your Reading List: Books by NRCM Members

Protecting Maine's North Woods: Explore What's at Stake

The North Woods isn’t just a place. It’s a way of life. Maine’s economy, outdoor traditions, and natural heritage wouldn’t be the same without the North Woods as we know it. It provides globally significant habitat for wildlife like Canada lynx, Bicknell’s Thrush, and native brook trout, and serves as one of the largest carbon sinks east of the Mississippi. But that future is not guaranteed.

Old growth forest bathed in afternoon light on the shore of Big Reed Pond

News from NRCM

New Report: Offshore Wind Would Have Lowered Electricity Prices 11% Last Winter

September 4, 2025 (Augusta, ME) – New England electricity prices would have been 11% lower last winter if contracted offshore wind projects had been operational, according to a new study by Daymark Energy Advisors. Tens of millions of dollars in lower costs would have been reflected on the electricity bills of Maine households and businesses.  Read More

Senator Collins Must Vote No on Reconciliation Bill

June 30, 2025 (Augusta, ME) — Maine’s leading nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization dedicated to protecting the environment, the Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM), today called on Senator Susan Collins to vote against a massive bill that seeks to kill the growing domestic clean energy industry and underfund America’s public lands—programs that are of great Read More

Maine Legislature Passes Bill for 100% Clean Electricity by 2040

June 18, 2025 (Augusta, ME) – The Maine House and Senate have passed a bill that aims to reduce the state’s reliance on expensive oil and gas by ensuring homes, businesses, and vehicles are powered with 100% clean, affordable electricity by 2040. When signed into law by Governor Janet Mills, LD 1868 will expand Maine’s existing Read More

Watching Hurricane Waves and Forster’s Terns

How EPA’s Proposal to Scrap Endangerment Finding Impacts Maine

How Federal Transportation Funding Can Deliver More Choices for Mainers

Wood turtle, photo by Pam Wells

Creature Feature

Wood Turtle

According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, the wood turtle is one of Maine’s rarest turtles and is listed as a species of “Special Concern.” It is found statewide, but wild populations are decreasing. On a positive note, it’s a long-lived species: up to 40 years in the wild. Learn more in our newest Creature Feature.

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Protecting the nature of Maine since 1959, by harnessing the power of science, the law, and the voices of people who value Maine's environment.

Explore Maine

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Find hiking trails, cross-country ski and snowshoeing trails, paddles, bike paths, accessible trails, & more with our interactive Explore Maine Map. View the map & learn more.

Learn about our Maine Sporting Camp & Outdoor Recreation Discount Program.

Get NRCM T-shirts, Caps, Totes, & More

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Attend an Event

Find out about events & webinars NRCM is hosting or taking part in throughout Maine. Plan to attend!
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My Maine This Week

close up of dragonfly

My Maine This Week: Dragonfly by Rachel Maher

doe and three fawns facing away from camera

My Maine This Week: Mother Deer and Her Fawns by Ana Vasquez

chipmunk on rock

My Maine This Week: Chipmunks by David Small

Banner photo: The Bubbles, Acadia National Park, by Gerard Monteux