The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says two Maine communities will receive technical assistance to pursue sustainable growth that encourages local economic development while safeguarding people's health and the environment.

Brunswick and Portland are among 43 communities in 27 states across the country chosen to receive the assistance through the EPA's Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.

EPA staff and national experts will conduct one- or two-day workshops focusing on the specific sustainability goal each community chose in their initial application to EPA.

Some of the tools offered this year included projects called a Green Building Toolkit, Land Use Strategies to Protect Water Quality, and Using Smart Growth to Produce Economic and Fiscal Health.