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.

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New Podcast: Maine's Environment in the 2025 Legislative Session—Progress & Outcomes

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News from NRCM

Flawed EIS for Kennebec Dams Ignores Calls for a Collaborative Recovery Solution

March 5, 2025 (Augusta, ME) — A final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) issued for four dams on Maine’s lower Kennebec River ignores the best available science and could doom endangered Atlantic salmon to extinction while harming recovery of other sea-run fish, according to a coalition of local residents, conservation organizations, and fishing groups, together with Read More

New Report: Federal Climate Programs Spur $2.2B in Investment in Maine

February 3, 2025 (Augusta, ME) – The past few years have seen Maine families, local businesses, and Wabanaki Nations benefit from at least $2.2 billion in direct and induced investments in clean technology thanks to federal funding provided by Congress, according to a new analysis issued today.    For the first time, the report quantifies the Read More

Congress Approves Bill to Expand Outdoor Equity

Today, the U.S. Senate approved the bipartisan Outdoors for All Act sponsored by Senator Susan Collins. The exciting investment in the nation’s outdoor spaces now heads to President Biden to be signed into law.  The Natural Resources Council of Maine issued the following statement from Federal Policy Advocate Anya Fetcher:  “Access to the outdoors and Read More

Potato Chip Birds—Five Cool and Surprising Facts

New Efficiency Maine Plan Will Deliver Hundreds of Millions in Savings

Here's How the Reconciliation Bill is Harmful to Maine

Wood turtle, photo by Pam Wells

Creature Feature

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.

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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.

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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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Find out about events & webinars NRCM is hosting or taking part in throughout Maine. Plan to attend!
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My Maine This Week

banner-Tomhegan-wilderness-Dellascio

My Maine This Week: Tomhegan Sunset by Michelle Dellascio

orange sky over mountains at sunset

My Maine This Week: Solon Sunset by Gerard Austin

fish jumping out of the water

My Maine This Week: Leaping Sturgeon by David Preston

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