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.
Business
Local, state and national business news from the Sun Journal.
Maine cannabis sales mellow out as recreational industry marks 5th anniversary
Prices have dropped and sales have lagged as the state’s recreational and medical marijuana markets begin leveling off, according to state data released last week.
Seth Carey shares his creative life at Hillbilly Bob’s Winery in Rumford
The former lawyer converted a chicken barn into a wine shack and offers country wine for sale, a modest dinner, music and Red Sox on the big screen.
In Leeds, one of Maine’s few estate vineyards reports a bountiful grape harvest
Drought conditions are beneficial this year, but they could affect the 2026 harvest.
Generations of growth in western Maine farms cultivate community
Boothby’s Orchard in Livermore and Rustic Roots Farm in Farmington share a deep commitment to feeding their communities and sustaining Franklin County agriculture.
Clean drinking water might be coming to Passamaquoddy reservation. There’s still trust to be built
Residents of Sipayik have endured discolored water and dangerous contaminants for decades.
Maine farmers, restaurants struggle with rising cost of beef
With prices nationwide at an all-time high, producers weigh price increases against customer loyalty.
Health care options in central Maine dwindle after recent closures
Residents have to navigate long appointment waitlists and look for doctors outside of their communities, as local health providers shutter or have limited availability.
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.
Portland jetport cracking down on parking scofflaws
The airport’s pick-up parking lot is for immediate arrivals only, but some vehicles have been left there unattended for hours, even days.