After the excitement of the elections this month, it’s incredibly important to remember what matters to us as Mainers. While some may feel divided on the election results, I know that Mainers stand united on environmental protection and conservation. Mainers will not stand for the destruction of our fauna, flora and landscape.

The Arctic tern is at risk for habitat loss due to drilling threats in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. This bird calls the coast of Maine home during its youth and returns to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from ages 3-5 to breed. These seabirds love the islands of the Maine coast. Maine birdwatchers surely hold an appreciation for the species. 

Maine’s ecotourism industry also faces huge risks. The proposed drilling will expedite the impacts of climate change. The Gulf of Maine is already warming twice as fast as the rest of the ocean. Our charter boats, coastal tours and beaches face damaging risks. It is essential to our economy to vote in ways that slow the impacts of climate change.

I want to urge fellow Mainers to think about what our environment does for us. Skiing, fishing, hiking, hunting and boating are all ways we enjoy our beautiful state. To maintain our way of life we must work to protect not just ourselves, but others near and far. We need to stand up for public lands. Call our representatives and demand they vote “No” on H.J. Res. 131.

Gretchen Wilichoski
Orono