National Wildlife Federation and Natural Resources Council of Maine news release Senator Angus King has joined Senator Susan Collins in cosponsoring a bipartisan wildlife conservation bill, the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act, that will inject $11.5 million into Maine annually to help at-risk wildlife species. “The federal government plays a critical role in protecting threatened and endangered Read More
Pleasant Mountain Preserve
Pleasant Mountain Preserve is located in Bridgton and Denmark, bordered by the Upper Saco River (west), Moose Pond (east), Kezar Pond (north), and Beaver Pond (south). The area’s proximity to both Portland and Boston makes it an important environmental, economic, and recreational spot. Pleasant Mountain (2,006 feet) is one of the key elements of the Read More
Bill to Boost Maine’s Offshore Wind Economy Advances Out of Committee
A bill to jumpstart a new offshore wind industry for Maine has been approved by the EUT Committee and now heads to the full Legislature for consideration. LD 1895, An Act Regarding the Procurement of Energy from Offshore Wind Resources, will generate a historic investment in affordable and reliable clean energy to power Maine’s homes, businesses, and transportation.
Decolonizing Conservation Communities: Staff Reflections & Commitments
Throughout the spring, staff at the Natural Resources Council of Maine participated in a multi-day training hosted by Wabanaki REACH, an organization dedicated to supporting the self-determination of Wabanaki people. The training, called “Decolonizing Conservation Communities,” was an incredible opportunity for our staff to learn more about the history of the land and waters of Read More
My Maine This Week: Hooded Merganser and babies by Callie Wronker
NRCM member Callie Wronker of Jefferson and Portland, Maine, shares her recent photo of a Hooded Merganser and her nine babies, swimming in Dyer Long Pond in Jefferson. Wow! What wildlife have you seen so far this spring? Please share your photos with us at nrcm@nrcm.org.
Legislation to Modernize Maine’s Bottle Bill Passes Unanimously Out of Committee
A bipartisan bill to modernize Maine’s popular beverage container redemption program was passed unanimously by the Environment and Natural Resources Committee yesterday. The vote came on the same day the Bottle Bill celebrated its 45th anniversary as the state’s most effective litter prevention and recycling program. “Maine’s Bottle Bill is a big part of our Read More
Belfast Rail Trail
The Belfast Rail Trail (also known as the Passagassawakeag or “Passy” Rail Trail) is a multi-use 2.3-mile path that lies right next to the Passagassawakeag River. As its name suggests, this trail utilizes the bed of a former railroad that was constructed in 1870. Although the railroad suspended operations in 2007, train excursions are still Read More
My Maine This Week: Alewives & Muskrat, by David Small
NRCM member David Small of Old Town, Maine, shares his stunning Maine photos with us weekly. His wildlife and nature photos are incredible. This week he wrote, “Orland Dam has been a go to spot for me to check up on the alewife run and fishing Ospreys, seals, Double-crested Cormorants and the ever present gulls. Read More
The Season of Newness: Spring Rowing in Belfast Bay
Since 2009, the Natural Resources Council of Maine has partnered with traditional Maine sporting camps to offer discounts to NRCM members on stays and activities at the various camps. Several years ago, we added guiding services, and for the past two years, we have partnered with Nicolle Littrell, open-water rower, licensed Maine Guide, and owner/operator Read More