The construction of new data centers has attracted a lot of attention around the country, and here in Maine. Large data centers, whether they’re built to support artificial intelligence (AI) development, cryptocurrency mining, or other purposes, can have sizeable impacts on surrounding communities, including the use of enormous amounts of electricity. While other states have 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.
The Bomb Cyclone and Birds at Sea
There was the hype. There was the footage of swirling, blowing snow, of waves piling up and spilling across oceanside streets. Brave weather people, geared up and giddy with anticipation, ignored their own advice and reported from the frontlines of Winter Storm Hernando, aka, the “bomb cyclone.” Whether or not it was the bomb, or Read More
How Investing in More Transportation Choices for Maine Will Cut Infrastructure Costs
Maine is facing a major transportation funding problem. By 2027, the Maine Highway Fund is projected to be $280 million short of what is needed to cover transportation expenses. This comes at a time when Americans are experiencing soaring transportation costs and congestion, and when funding for affordable solutions to meet everyday travel needs is Read More
How a Maine Climate Superfund Will Help Local Maine Towns Like Mine
Last October, the City of Bath passed a resolution in support of LD 1870 — for the state to establish a Climate Superfund and make big fossil fuel companies pay for the climate impacts we are experiencing in Maine. The City of Rockland and the Town of Yarmouth passed similar resolutions. Other municipalities around the state are considering doing the same. I can’t speak on behalf Read More
2026 Legislative Priorities for Maine’s Environment
At the beginning of every legislative session, staff at the Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM) reviews hundreds of bills to identify those that will advance climate action and steward Maine’s forests, wildlife, waters, and our great outdoors. The second session of the 132nd Legislature is well underway, and our experts are already working hard at the State House, testifying and attending work sessions to help hammer out the details for some of Read More
Which Feeder Bird is the Toughest?
Our bird feeders have seen an increase in bird activity with all of the recent snow. Often, many birds are stopping in for a meal at the same time. But, that doesn’t mean they all are able to sit at the table, so to speak. With limited space, it’s not surprising that situations arise in Read More
How the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Invests in Maine
Maine people have always valued our woods, waters, and wildlife, tried to reduce waste whenever possible, and worked to find solutions that lower costs so families and businesses wherever we are in the state can flourish. Maine’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) program is a great example of our shared values. RGGI Read More
My First 30 Years at NRCM
Earlier this month, on January 5th to be exact, I celebrated my 30th anniversary at the Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM). I so clearly remember my first day at work. I was hired to be the receptionist at our former offices on State Street. At that time, there was no website. There was no external email. And there were phone books…lots and Read More
EPA’s Proposed Changes to Clean Water Act Would Gut Protections for Wetlands
For more than half a century, the Clean Water Act has helped curb pollution flowing into our rivers, lakes, and streams. And now the safeguards that are embedded in this landmark environmental law are at risk due to changes being proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin. The Clean Water Act Read More
