When Steve Drane takes his walk along the shores of Lake Auburn each morning with his dog Suga and his cat Nubby in tow, he knows what he is looking at. Most people marvel at the natural beauty, but few know what it is they are beholding.

Steve can identify every flower, plant, tree, animal and most insects that cross his path.  It is not just from reading books. Drane has spent numerous hours rubbing elbows with scholars and well known environmentalists, but some of his most memorable experiences has been the time spent with “common folks who live off the land and respect the critical balance between man and nature.” 

Born in Kentucky, he came to Maine for a career in the Job Corps as a mental health worker. Today he considers himself an ecologist and environmentalist with a masters in gardening. He often volunteers to go into schools to share his wealth of knowledge and love of nature.  He opens eyes when they learn of all the things they can eat in the Maine woods and often has samples that grow in his yard or found in the woods nearby.

“People are amazed when I show them how they can live off the land, year round! Not only do we have a wealth of wild food, but natural remedies are abundant. They can be substituted for store bought drugs,” he said. He uses natural mint for digestive issues, and makes a calming tea from wild camomile. 

Drane applauds groups such as Lots to Gardens and the various other organizations that are growing produce locally.  “You never know what is in the food you get at the grocery store. Between the pesticides and ingredients of the fertilizer they use, the toxins and chemicals that go into your body can break down your immunity system and create other physical and mental issues,” he said.  Local organic farms and wider availability of natural meat and produce inspires him.  However, he has reservations when he hears of proposals for massive developments around some of the undeveloped lakes and rivers, especially in the northern part of the state. 

He embraces Native American culture and lore, often adopting their practices. His trademark feather in his cap augments his tall, lanky frame, usually aided by a large walking stick. “Most of us feel like foreigners in our environment. If more people developed a kinship with it, we would stand a better chance of preserving what we have here in Maine.”

Steve Drane takes his dog and cat for a walk along the edge of Lake Auburn near his home.

Steve Drane waits with his dog Suga for Nubby, a stray cat he adopted, to cross the street near his home on North Auburn Road in Auburn recently.