Fresh out of graduate school with a master’s degree in ecology from Utah State University, Andrew Sharp was figuring out his next steps when he found a job as Bradbury Mountain’s official hawk watcher for the 2021 migration season this past spring. The Chesterfield, Virginia, native just wrapped up a three-month, six-days-a-week stint perched atop […]
maine environment
Posted inbPlus
26% federal tax credit extended for solar investments
Until recently a federal tax credit for solar panels was scheduled to be reduced, then go away in 2022. That’s changed. Congress extended by two years the 26% tax credit, which significantly lowers the cost of an individual solar investment. The tax credit means the final cost for a $20,000 system is $15,000; $18,500 for […]
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Posted inMaine, News
Diminishing ice cover on Maine’s lakes could impact fish populations
With ice-out occurring earlier now than it did decades ago, biologists worry decreasing ice cover and warmer water may lead to a decline in water quality and hurt some fish species.
Posted inAndroscoggin County, Lewiston-Auburn, Maine
Turn off the lights, buy local, ride your bike: How to make every day Earth Day
Local environmentalists and leaders are encouraging Mainers to do their part for Earth Day’s 51st anniversary.
Posted inbPlus
$13 a month for heat and electricity. A tale of two solar converts
The downside: the initial investment. But these solar supporters say the cost is about what they were paying for heat and electricity monthly before solar, and in eight to 12 years, they’ll be on Easy Street.
Posted inbPlus
Maine lawmakers taking closer look at solar power payback
Critics worry the state is forcing utilities to pay solar power providers — especially large commercial producers — too much, and that the burden will end up on the backs of ratepayers.
Posted inBusiness, Lewiston-Auburn, Maine, News
Recycling in Maine salvages 3 tough years
Experts say China’s ban forced Maine and the country to confront ‘flaws’ in its waste system, and advocates hope greater awareness and pending state and federal legislation will kick-start more recycling.
Posted inbPlus, Guides, Things to Do
Seven Maine roads — 522 miles of nationally recognized awesome
Maine has three new National Scenic Byways, giving you even more historical, recreational and cultural reasons to hit the open road as summer beckons.
Posted inbPlus
Face Time: Sarah Hammond, new grad and environmental steward
The Auburn native surprised a few frogs, got her chainsaw certification and did a lot of good in the Maine woods last summer.
Posted inbPlus, Maine
Maine added 91 new spiders to its state species list
Bad news for arachnophobes. There are 677 known species of spiders in Maine, including 91 new ones just added to the list last month. So small, so quiet, so many, you’re probably sitting next to one right now…