Gorham Middle School students spent May 3rd and part of May 4th outside collecting data and treating the plots. Students came up with a variety of ways to try and eradicate the knotweed. Methods for treating plots include: covering with tarps, digging knotweed out, spraying with a mixture of vinegar and soap, also trying a 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.
My Thoughts on Tragic Trump Decision to Exit Paris Climate Agreement
President Trump’s decision to remove the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement is a devastating blow to the nation and the planet, and could have dire consequences for the state of Maine. Just 18 months ago, the U.S. provided critical leadership in securing support from 194 other nations to participate in this voluntary action Read More
Brunswick Bans Bags!
A year, almost to the day, after Brunswick banned single-use foam containers, the Town Council voted overwhelmingly to further protect Maine’s environment by adopting an ordinance banning single-use plastic bags. The new ordinance, which was adopted by the Town Council in March after lengthy discussions and multiple opportunities for public input, will go into effect Read More
Sayings That Get Me Through | Maine Environment
Familiar sayings comfort me in times of great distress. Indeed, the Trump Administration’s attacks on our environmental protections and on science-based policymaking—and his complete disregard for truth—infuriate me every day. “This too shall pass,” is an adage that reminds me I have lived through several national crises, and I will live to see better days Read More
St. George Students Get Hands-on Experience in the Marsh
The St. George science students have been very busy this spring. By participating in a number of hands-on experiences as well as talking to local experts, these students are seeking better understanding of how the lands and animals in and around the Marsh affect its health and movement. This post provides a sampling of what Read More
Gorham Middle School Weeds Out Invasive Species – Part I
As a continuation of their grant project last year, Gorham Middle School science classes are working to eradicate the invasive Japanese Knotweed from their school grounds. Students are taking their knowledge from the classroom and implementing it through experiments and observations. Here is what they’ve been working on. —Sarah Oberink, NRCM Protecting the Nature of Read More
The Future of Maine’s Environment…It’s All About the Kids
On May 8 and 9, my wife Alix and I, accompanied by Gabrielle Grunkemeyer from NRCM, were hosted by Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School and the Edna Drinkwater School in Northport. Sarah Oberink, the University of Maine NRCM intern, joined us at Edna Drinkwater. Visiting these schools and learning about the work they are doing helped Read More
Memorial Middle School Students Enjoy Learning in Maine’s Environment
Although it was 90 degrees this past week, Memorial Middle School students remind us of the tremendous winter we had and the ways they got to enjoy the snow. The trails surrounds the Carter Outdoor Classroom provided great fun for the students as they explored the area on snowshoes. Come spring, with help from their Read More
Ecology, Loss, and Triage
“I don’t think of all the misery, but of all the beauty that remains.” –Anne Frank On Sunday, 30 April 2017, the New York Times reported that global marine fisheries are being pushed to the brink. This and countless other imminent losses prompt me to once again point out that management of the global biosphere Read More