Working Together to Protect the Nature of Maine

This election has been like no other in my memory. It has been emotional and draining for many of us because we understand at a visceral level that the outcomes will be consequential for years to come. As we continue to watch the results and consider what they mean for ourselves, our families, and our future, I wanted to write to you – NRCM’s dedicated supporters – to say, regardless of the outcome of any one race, your passion and energy is desperately needed today more than ever.

We should not miss the opportunity now to take what we’re feeling and turn it into change for a healthier, more just future for all Mainers. NRCM’s mission of protecting the nature of Maine transcends political party. People who love Maine have a fundamental respect for a clean and healthy environment and are extremely wary of projects or policies that would compromise our unique natural resources. We must work together to build the future our children and grandchildren deserve.

We must recommit ourselves to pursuing bold climate actions that will build a brighter future for all of us. We are excited that the Maine Climate Council will soon finalize a new Climate Action Plan. You can be sure that NRCM, our colleagues, and allies will do everything within our power to help secure enactment of that plan, designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80 percent by 2050. We must recommit ourselves to investing in the special places – like our public lands and rivers — that support our vibrant recreation and tourist economies.
It has become even more apparent now that the nation faces fundamental, long-standing problems of racism, polarization, and inequality. We have a lot of work to do to address hatred and injustice in our state and nation. Our work to protect the nature of Maine must benefit everyone.

Here in Maine, a bipartisan conservation majority was again elected to the Legislature. Many new incoming legislators understand the importance of a clean and healthy environment. We are hopeful lawmakers will continue to pursue legislation to invest in public lands, act on climate, and transition to clean energy that will help us rebuild stronger by creating new jobs and boosting our economy.

I invite you to join NRCM for a special Zoom webinar on Tuesday, November 17 from 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. to learn what the 2020 election results mean for Maine’s environment. You’ll hear from NRCM Advocacy Director Pete Didisheim as he shares his best thinking about what the election results could mean for the future of clean water, clean air, forests, and wildlife in our state.

Thankfully, we live in a state where beautiful outdoor spaces surround us. These special places can be a respite from troubles facing our society and the world, and they can also be a catalyst for the change we seek. A sunset or sunrise, a view from a mountaintop, or even a simple walk in the forest or along the coastline can remind us of the importance of our collaborative work.

Nature creates special moments for each of us. Seek them out. Embrace them. And use them to fuel your continued commitment to helping us build a better future for all Mainers. Each of us has the power to help bring about positive change. Take what you feel and turn it into action, whether that’s writing a letter-to-the-editor, contacting your legislators about important issues, or organizing others to join in a collective call for change.

Raise your voice. Take action. And in these divisive times, be kind to each other.

Many thanks for your ongoing support of NRCM and our collective work to protect the unique beauty that Maine has to offer us all.

—Lisa Pohlmann, NRCM CEO