Wyman Power Station on Cousins Island in Yarmouth recently submitted a request for a clean air exemption to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) that would allow them to avoid complying with updated air quality standards for nitrous oxides (NOx) that were put in place to protect public health. The plant’s owner, Florida-based NextEra Energy, also says it plans to continue operating Wyman for 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.
Roadless Rule Repeal Would Harm New England’s Last Wild Places
I’ve hiked up Speckled Mountain three times, summitting once. That day, I had made some grave mistakes regarding my hiking attire and spent half of the ascent in a radioactive silence, swarmed by mosquitos attacking through the thin fabric of my tights (a word to the wise: never wear fabric that lays close to your Read More
Maine’s Environment in the 2026 Legislative Session: Progress & Outcomes
The Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM) is the voice for Maine’s environment at the State House. We work together with people and organizations across Maine to advance progress on climate action, land conservation and wildlife protection, cleaner air and water, and holding polluters accountable for the waste they create. These results were only possible through the Read More
Cooper Flagg Fans, Meet Cholao 2
As we write this, Cooper Flagg, the superstar basketball player from Newport, Maine, now playing for the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, has just won the award for Rookie of the Year. He’s accomplished so much – good for him! A well-deserved honor. Flagg isn’t the only individual soaring to incredible heights of success. For us, Cholao Read More
CMP Disguises Its Latest Bid to Increase Mainers’ Electricity Bills
Accountability and Affordability Must Be at the Center of Efforts to Scrutinize CMP’s Rate Increase On Friday April 17, Central Maine Power (CMP) filed its latest proposal to increase Mainers’ electricity bills. As we review the company’s filing, the Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM) will be focused on two ways to reduce electricity prices Read More
What You Need to Know about Maine’s New Plug-in Solar Law
A new plug-in solar law passed in April 2026 clears the way for Maine renters, homeowners, and local business owners to take advantage of clean, cheap solar power to reduce their electricity bills. These small, portable solar panels are expected to generate a lot of interest because they’ll give Mainers the opportunity to generate solar power Read More
Energy Costs in Maine and the War in Iran
In the month since the war in Iran began, it has become clear that it will have major economic impacts affecting Maine families and businesses. At the top of the list is instability in global oil and gas markets that have come with the closing of the Strait of Hormuz – a critical trade route Read More
Remembering Lisa Pohlmann
With heavy hearts, we share with you that Lisa Pohlmann, NRCM’s CEO from 2011-2022, passed away on Sunday, March 22. Lisa joined the NRCM team in 2000 as a member of the Board of Directors, later serving as board president and then Deputy Director under Brownie Carson. She brought to her leadership of the Natural Read More
Bird Aftermath of the 2026 Bomb Cyclone
In our last blog, we wondered what kind of an impact the ferocious bomb cyclone might have on seabirds that winter on the open ocean off Maine. For instance, would Dovekies, those smallest of the alcids (the bird family that includes Atlantic Puffins and Black Guillemots), appear in high numbers along Maine shores? Dovekies are Read More
