Southern Maine will have a new National Wildlife Refuge

The US Fish and Wildlife Service announced the creation of a new national wildlife refuge in southern Maine this week. Called the Great Thicket National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), new conserved lands will maintain grass- and shrub habitats in coastal regions of New England and New York. Areas targeted for Refuge lands are concentrated in the […]

What makes invasive species so dangerous?

Just over a year ago, the largest known chestnut tree in North America was found in Western Maine. About 150 years ago, giant chestnut trees were fairly common in New England, where they were a favorite tree to plant in cities. Chestnuts were largely wiped out in the US after an invasive fungus swept the […]

Why are some lakes clearer than others?

With summer upon us, it is finally lake season again in Maine. Even the most timid among us are now venturing – slowly but surely – into the water. You may have noticed that not all lakes are created equal: some Maine lakes are incredibly clear, while others are so murky you can barely see […]

The mystique of Maine’s ecosystem

Orono Bog

Maine boasts some of the healthiest ecosystems and most passionate scientists in the country. The same forests, lakes and rivers that have fed Mainers for centuries have also fed in-depth research on the natural sciences. I hope to take some of this research and show how it matters to us. I also hope to share with you some scientific gems hidden just out of sight in our great outdoors.