As we head into the fast-approaching legislative session, with newly elected officials and so much work to be done to protect Maine’s lands and waters, I have been thinking about our various strategies to ensure success in the coming year. We are always in the process of reviewing the research, identifying emerging threats and opportunities, and working with coalitions and policy makers to identify the next best paths and places to push to achieve success on our shared goals. We are constantly working out our communications plans so that we can explain our issues clearly and get people excited and engaged in the projects and campaigns coming up. And the one constant we rely upon year after year—the best tool in our tool kit—is the passion of NRCM members.
It has been a pleasure to meet personally with so many of you this summer and fall at our Allagash Award and Conservation Leadership Award events; at music festivals, Rotary Club meetings, and churches; and in living rooms and coffee shops from Portland to Ellsworth and beyond. The entire NRCM staff has been crisscrossing the state, too, and I know many of you have had the opportunity to talk with us at Bangor Greendrinks, NRCM Rising kick-off events, and Portland Greenfest. We even had a presence at the People’s Climate March in New York City, as NRCM staffer Cathy Johnson marched with 300,000 people (and many of you!) to send a loud-and-clear message to the United Nations’ Climate Summit that it is high time for action.
You are key to our success. Your advocacy (testimony, letters to the editor, and calls to your representatives), your many emails with your thoughts and encouragement, and your financial support keep us strong, focused, and ready to face the challenges ahead.
As I head to the office down Route 17 from Jefferson most mornings, my mind is always buzzing with our conversations. I’ll be carrying you with me when I head to the State House or speak at the next conference or spend time enjoying the beautiful nature of Maine. Together we make a world of difference.
—Lisa Pohlmann, NRCM CEO
Originally printed in Fall 2014 Maine Environment newsletter. You can receive your own copy of NRCM’s newsletter by becoming a member today.
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