Protecting Maine's Environment

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Old growth forest bathed in afternoon light on the shore of Big Reed Pond

Protecting Maine's North Woods: Explore What's at Stake

The North Woods isn’t just a place. It’s a way of life. Maine’s economy, outdoor traditions, and natural heritage wouldn’t be the same without the North Woods as we know it. It provides globally significant habitat for wildlife like Canada lynx, Bicknell’s Thrush, and native brook trout, and serves as one of the largest carbon sinks east of the Mississippi. But that future is not guaranteed.

Power Maine Forward: 100% Clean Electricity by 2040

Visit Our 2025 Legislative Bill Tracking Page

NRCM's New Look Rooted in Maine

News from NRCM

Update on Stronger Clean Car Standards for Maine 

Below is an update from NRCM Climate & Clean Energy Outreach Coordinator Josh Caldwell on stronger standards for clean cars and trucks in Maine:  “Due to the severity of the recent storm, the Board of Environmental Protection (BEP) was forced to cancel today’s meeting to vote on stronger standards for clean cars and trucks. The Read More

Statement on Termination of Northern Maine Transmission Procurement

Today, the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) terminated the procurement of a transmission line to enable the development of new wind resources in Aroostook County. In response, the Natural Resources Council of Maine issued the following statement from Climate & Clean Energy Director Jack Shapiro:    “Climate change is one of the greatest threats facing Maine’s Read More

Strong Support for Maine-based Offshore Wind Port

A unique coalition of organized labor and environmental groups that successfully passed a landmark offshore wind bill earlier this year are now signaling their unequivocal support for the responsible development of an offshore wind port on Maine’s coast.   The coalition, including Maine’s largest conservation groups and labor organizations, today released the following statement highlighting Read More

Birding with Jeff & Allison: Remembering the Lost Birds on a Special Day

New Efficiency Maine Plan Will Deliver Hundreds of Millions in Savings

Assessing the Trump Administration's First 100 Days

Wood turtle, photo by Pam Wells

Wood Turtle

According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, the wood turtle is one of Maine’s rarest turtles and is listed as a species of “Special Concern.” It is found statewide, but wild populations are decreasing. On a positive note, it’s a long-lived species: up to 40 years in the wild. Learn more in our newest Creature Feature.

Protecting the Nature of Maine badge

Protecting the nature of Maine since 1959, by harnessing the power of science, the law, and the voices of people who value Maine's environment.

Explore Maine

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Find hiking trails, cross-country ski and snowshoeing trails, paddles, bike paths, accessible trails, & more with our interactive Explore Maine Map. View the map & learn more.

Learn about our Maine Sporting Camp & Outdoor Recreation Discount Program.

Shop for NRCM T-shirts, Caps, Totes, & More

Purchase our limited-edition merchandise, with original artwork by local artist Mel Andrel. You can also find made-in-the-USA caps, totes, & more, all in support of our work to protect the nature of Maine.
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Attend an Event

Find out about events & webinars NRCM is hosting or taking part in throughout Maine. Plan to attend!
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flowering plant with rocks in background

My Maine This Week: Appalachian Sandwort by Linda Woods

Bald Eagle baby and parent in nest

My Maine This Week: Bald Eagles by Ross Knowlton

sunset behind Pemaquid lighthouse

My Maine This Week: Pemaquid Point Lighthouse by David Preston

Banner photo: The Bubbles, Acadia National Park, by Gerard Monteux