Senator Boyle, Representative Welsh, and members of the Joint Standing Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. My name is Sarah Lakeman. I am the Sustainable Maine Policy Advocate for the Natural Resources Council of Maine and I appreciate this opportunity to testify in Support of LD 1634. NRCM was involved in shaping and passing LD Read More
Maine Bill Aims to Boost Solar Power Development
by Patty B. Wight MPBN radio news story The heat of the sun may seem far away on this bitterly cold day. But it was the focus of debate in the Legislature’s Energy and Utilities Committee. A new bill aims to make solar power more affordable and accessible for Mainers. But opponents question the push Read More
Support of LD 1652, An Act to Support Solar Energy Development in Maine
My name is Dylan Voorhees and I am the Clean Energy Director for the Natural Resources Council of Maine. Thank you for allowing us to present this testimony. I will begin by stating that, for NRCM, passage of a solid solar power bill is a top priority for the energy committee this session. We believe Read More
My Maine This Week: Stacey LaCombe
“A picture of the Margaret Todd in Bar Harbor taken during sunrise late last fall.” – Photo by Stacey LaCombe of Ellsworth, Maine
My Maine This Week: David Small
“I took a rather cold hike in the Alton area where I captured several photos of Ruffed Grouse that were budding in an area of alders…that and trying to stay warm. This photo shows the grouse all puffed up against the 15 degree day, plus wind!” – Photo by NRCM member David Small of Old Read More
Maine Mining Rules Get Initial Approval from Board
The new regulations are aimed at boosting the industry, but critics are fearful of creating pollution. by Michael Shepherd Portland Press Herald news story AUGUSTA — In a preliminary vote Friday, a state board adopted a set of rules for metal mines aimed at spurring the industry in Maine, a move criticized by environmentalists who Read More
Board of Environmental Protection Unanimously Approves New Maine Mining Rules
by Whit Richardson, staff writer Bangor Daily News news story AUGUSTA, Maine — The Board of Environmental Protection on Friday afternoon voted 5-0 to approve new mining rules that govern metallic mining operations in the state. At issue are detailed rules developed by the Department of Environmental Protection in accordance with LD 1853, new mining Read More
Maine Should Lead Washington on Climate Policy
by Peter Mills and Sharon S. Tisher Bangor Daily News op-ed It is fortunate for all 7 billion people on Earth that humans are finally learning new ways to produce and use energy. Examples are legion: hybrid cars, LED light bulbs, more economical wind, solar and hydropower, super-insulated buildings and fiber-optic communications to reduce physical Read More
Baxter State Park Authority Accepts 43-acre Katahdin Lake Easement
by John Holyoke, BDN staff Bangor Daily News news story The Baxter State Park Authority on Monday voted to accept a conservation easement on an historic 43-acre lot that includes 500 feet of shore frontage on Katahdin Lake. The easement was granted by the James Sewall family, which offered an unconditional gift of various conservation Read More