In January 2020, Wolfden Resources, a Canadian company in massive debt and with no metal mining experience, submitted a rezoning petition to the Land Use Planning Commission (LUPC) for a metal mine at Pickett Mountain. Wolfden hopes to mine for zinc, lead, and copper on 528 acres near Mount Chase, not far from Baxter State Read More
Nature of Maine Blog
The Natural Resources Council of Maine’s “Nature of Maine” blog gives you the inside scoop on some of the latest issues facing Maine’s environment. From environmental news to threats to opportunities, NRCM is on the frontlines of the latest goings-on—and we’re often leading the charge on efforts to protect Maine’s precious lands, air, waters, and wildlife. Read what NRCM staff members have to say and get the perspective of some of our members and supporters who have been guest contributors.
Perhaps you have an issue you’d like to write about. Maybe you’re an expert on a particular topic and are inspired to share your expertise. Maybe you’ve recently made a visit to a spectacular Maine nature preserve or other natural area and would like to write about it (captioned photos welcome!). For submission guidelines, email nrcm@nrcm.org.
A Conversation with 2021 Allagash Visiting Artist Martha Kotter
Every year, visiting artists are hosted at the Allagash Wilderness Waterway and Baxter State Park. The program presents exciting opportunities to learn more about these special places through the eyes of creative artists. The Natural Resources Council of Maine’s Forests & Wildlife Director Melanie Sturm has been exploring the intersection of art and environmental protection Read More
A Fall Escape to Nahmakanta
When I flip the calendar to September, I never quite know what the weather is going to serve up for the month, but I can definitely count on a magical event to take place. The sea of green leaves that make up Maine’s trees and forests morph into a cascading display of the most vibrant Read More
Why Do Forests Matter for Birds?
We know you know that forests are incredibly important for birds. You learned in school (we hope!) that they provide homes for birds, and provide the food they need to raise young and for successful travels to and from their breeding and wintering grounds. If you’ve hiked in a forest, or paddled a stream or river Read More
Rewilding Our Homes in Maine
In Maine, word of mouth holds a lot of weight. The best hidden outdoor nooks, secret gems, volunteer opportunities, and pristine hiking trails that I’ve discovered have come through a combination of unflagging curiosity and generously offered insider tips. So, when two separate Mainers independently approached me about Wild Seed Project, I knew I had Read More
Electric Vehicles a “No Brainer” for Future of Automobiles
“Put your money with your mouth is.” That’s why I recently bought our first electric vehicle. In my role as meteorologist at NewsCenter Maine, I’ve become one of the most visible and vocal climate change advocates in the state. Most of my work on climate change involves the science behind it, how we know it’s Read More
Code Red for the Climate Demands New Behavior by CMP
On the same day that the Portland Press Herald reported about an alarming new climate study that has been called “code red for humanity,” it also carried a front-page story about Central Maine Power’s (CMP) continued failure to help solar energy projects connect with the electrical grid as part of Maine’s response to climate change. The contrast could not be Read More
50 Years of Maine’s Land Use Planning Commission
Many who care about Maine’s environment may not be familiar with the relatively unknown state agency that holds the key to the future of much of Maine’s undeveloped areas, including the North Woods and Unorganized Territories (UT). That agency, which was created 50 years ago this month, was originally known as the Land Use Regulation Commission (LURC) but is today named the Land Use Planning Commission (LUPC). For almost as long as the LUPC has existed, the Read More
Critter Chatter – Fall Freedom!
This is the time of year many critters are released from the Duck Pond Wildlife Center, although if animals are old enough and sufficiently rehabbed, releases also take place throughout the summer. Chipmunks and squirrels are usually not turned out after mid-October, as their primary natural food sources have dwindled. This year’s fawns are still Read More
