Covering the cost of blood tests for more than 600 households in areas where farms used sludge to fertilize their fields represents a turning point in the state’s response to the crisis, from tracking to direct medical intervention.
climate
Is the drought draining your well? What Mainers can do.
Maine state geologist Ryan Gordon answers well water questions as the statewide drought deepens and the number of dry wells increases.
Persistent drought takes toll on Maine farmers
After a wet spring, farmers hoped for blue summer skies, but also got a drought that caused crop losses and may last through winter.
How Maine’s environment is being reshaped by longer, hotter summers
The Portland Press Herald spoke to two dozen experts this summer about the ways increasing heat is affecting Maine’s natural world.
Federal cuts threaten Maine environment, leaders say
Concerns were outlined by the Maine Climate Council and in a new report from the Natural Resources Council of Maine.
What do ever-hotter summers mean for Maine’s economy?
As the state charts increasingly warm and longer summers, businesses across all industries are planning for more weather extremes.
Maine scientist skis Greenland to document climate change
A Freeport climate scientist is enduring minus 40-degree temperatures while skiing across Greenland to document the fastest warming section of the Arctic and install sensors that can help predict the rate of sea level rise and ocean warming around the world.
Passamaquoddy Tribe wants to install hundreds of rooftop solar panels. Maine utility says it’s not allowed.
Regulators’ decision could also affect people in retirement communities and mobile home cooperatives who band together to fund solar projects.
With nowhere to run, Maine wildlife face heat-related risks
Extreme heat exacerbates the issues wildlife are already facing: drought, habitat loss and the spread of disease.
What happens to the body under extreme heat? Medical tent at Beach to Beacon offers a glimpse
Summertime in Maine can bring welcome sunshine and warmth. But under certain conditions, hot and humid weather can cause problems for the body: anything from minor muscle cramps and skin rashes to more serious issues like dizziness, vomiting and seizures.