The Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM) closely monitors policy developments related to environmental issues in Maine at the state and federal levels. We actively promote policies to protect against air pollution and water pollution, ensuring clean air and clean water in Maine. We work to conserve land for public access and for healthy Maine Read More
2018 Legislative Priorities for Maine’s Environment
The 2018 legislative session is well underway. This is the “short session” of the Legislature, which means the pace is fast as lawmakers attempt to adjourn by the end of April. It is also an election year for every House and Senate seat, and it is Governor Paul LePage’s final year in office, adding an Read More
Support of LD 1510, An Act To Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue To Fund Wastewater Infrastructure Projects
Senator Hamper, Representative Gattine, and members of the Joint Standing Committee on Appropriations and Financial Affairs, my name is Pete Didisheim. I am the Advocacy Director for the Natural Resources Council of Maine. I appreciate this opportunity to testify on behalf of our 20,000 members and supporters in support of LD 1510, which would create Read More
Clean Energy: Boost Solar Power in Maine
A solar power revolution is underway around the world—last year in the U.S., the #1 source of new power was solar, exceeding new wind and natural gas capacity. However, Maine needs to play catch up. Maine has an excellent solar resource, but we are missing out on the jobs and clean energy it could bring Read More
Protect Maine’s Environment from Mining Pollution
Metal mining is one of the most damaging industrial activities conducted anywhere, with a worldwide legacy of environmental contamination. Maine has its own legacy of poor mining at the former Callahan mine in Brooksville. Shuttered 40 years ago, it’s still causing water pollution and has already cost Maine taxpayers more than $8 million in cleanup Read More
Opposition to LD 683, An Act to Fund the Maine Solid Waste Diversion Grant Program and To Phase Out Certain Containers from the Bottle Redemption Laws
Senator Saviello, Representative Tucker, and members of the Joint Standing Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, my name is Pete Didisheim, I am the Advocacy Director for the Natural Resources Council of Maine. I appreciate this opportunity to testify in opposition to LD 683, An Act to Fund the Maine Solid Waste Diversion Grant Program Read More
NRCM Testimony on LD 349, LD 375, and LD 385, Bills to Establish Product Stewardship Programs for Mattresses, Carpets, and Rechargeable Batteries
Senator Saviello, Representative Tucker, and members of the Environment and Natural Resources Committee. My name is Pete Didisheim, I am the Advocacy Director for the Natural Resources Council of Maine, and I appreciate this opportunity to testify on the three bills before the Committee that would create product stewardship programs for carpets (LD 375), mattresses Read More
Aziscohos Lake—kayaking from Black Brook Cove Campground
Chosen By: Pete Didisheim, Senior Director of Advocacy Location: Lincoln Plantation, Oxford County Description: Aziscohos Lake is spectacular for kayaking, no matter which part of it you tackle. Undeveloped shorelines on a long, narrow lake with forests, islands, wildlife and mountains. Activities: Paddling Favorite Season(s) to Visit: Summer and fall Why It’s Special: It’s a Read More
Penobscot Mountain—Sargent Mountain hike, with swim at Sargent Pond
Chosen By: Pete Didisheim, Senior Director of Advocacy Location: Acadia National Park, Hancock County Description: To hike the Penobscot Mountain—Sargent Mountain loop, go to the Jordan Pond House and walk behind the building, to the left, to find the trailhead marker. The trail winds through woods, over streams, crosses the famous carriage roads, and includes Read More
