April is Earth Month, and while I know there’s a lot going on, I’m asking Mainers to remember that climate change remains a critical threat, one we can’t ignore.

Unfortunately, even if we want to address climate change, President Trump isn’t making it easy. Among the many other actions his administration has taken, the revamped Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken away $15 million worth of grants from Maine to help create programs for clean energy and efficiency. Additionally, the EPA is targeting many important environmental regulations for potential rollback.

On top of that, everything else Trump is doing seems designed to make it hard to stay focused and hopeful. But I’m asking Mainers to stay focused, not to forget about climate change, and not to give up.

This isn’t easy, but we can take inspiration from our beautiful state. This summer, I’ll do that for myself by going to Baxter State Park, a journey I’ve made every summer but one since 1986. Every time, I’m humbled and inspired by Gov. Baxter’s gift to our state, and I come away with renewed energy to keep pushing for our state to address climate change.

I urge others to take advantage of our clean waters, clear air and deep forests, and remember how much this — and much more — is worth fighting for. Not only for us, but for future generations who deserve to experience the same abundance and beauty we have.

Erica Bartlett
Portland