The open source computer model that Jose Meireles is developing will use genetic analysis and reflective light to study already collected plants, saving field and lab time and money and protecting rare plants from destruction.
environment
Federal cuts may hurt Maine’s ability to meet climate goals, scientists say
Reduced federal funding and staffing could hinder the Maine Climate Council’s ability to prepare for and track climate change, as well as the state’s ability to meet greenhouse gas reduction goals.
Hallowell volunteers survey ‘threatened’ Vaughan Brook watershed
Recent testing found Vaughan Brook does not meet water quality standards for aquatic life and dissolved oxygen, thanks largely to increased pressure from development.
Maine’s next wildlife protection plan will consider climate threats
The once-a-decade conservation blueprint will weigh climate change threats, include plants as well as animals and emphasize habitat protection.
Maine tree spraying will kill any caterpillars, not just forest pests
While not toxic to people or most animals, pesticides to protect spruce and fir trees against budworm could also hurt the caterpillar form of two threatened butterflies. Spraying supporters say plans call for a targeted approach.
Tracking Maine’s wild mussel beds: Declining or retreating into the deep?
The Gulf of Maine Research Institute would like the public to help hunt for wild mussel beds below the low-tide line.
Peregrine falcons show signs of national decline, but not in Maine
The deadly avian flu killing falcons in other states hasn’t hit here, but biologists still worry about Maine’s peregrine population because it’s so small.
Go see the alewives as they migrate up Maine rivers — and hurry | Column
The sea-run fish are still making their way to the lakes and ponds where they spawn.
Trump administration seeks to expand offshore oil and gas drilling, including in Gulf of Maine
The Department of the Interior also moved to speed up permitting for a range of energy sources, primarily fossil fuels.
Maine announces record $8M in state climate resilience grants
More than 150 communities across the state are included in the latest round of state climate resilience grants announced by Gov. Janet Mills in Kennebunkport, which was heavily damaged by back-to-back storms in January 2024.