#gulfofmaine — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #gulfofmaine, aggregated by home.social.
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Hype for the Future 58C: The Complexities between Maine and New Brunswick
Roosevelt Campobello The Roosevelt Campobello summer home was most notably associated with the family of Franklin Delano and Eleanor Roosevelt specifically, with the International Park area being jointly serviced by the United States 🇺🇸 and Canada 🇨🇦 in spite of physically being located on Campobello Island, entirely within the Canadian Province of New Brunswick. Grand Manan Though the island may occasionally appear closer to the mainland of the United States by way of Maine, […] -
#BlueCrabs on the rise in #Maine waters
Growing population raises questions about impacts, good and bad
By Clarke Canfield
Posted 2023-12-01Excerpt: "In the wild, blue crabs are eaten by large fish, some fish-eating birds, and sea turtles, according to NOAA Fisheries. But it’s what crabs themselves eat that is raising questions in the #GulfOfMaine.
"Blue crabs are major predators of ocean-bottom communities and will eat almost anything, including clams, oysters, mussels, small crustaceans, freshly dead fish, and plants. They’ll also eat smaller and soft-shelled blue crabs.
"In Maine, one question is whether blue crabs pose a threat to juvenile lobsters that are abundant and serve as the foundation of Maine’s lobster fishery. 'Blue crabs are one of the most aggressive crab species and pose predatory and habitat threats to lobsters,' said Aaron Whitman, a senior research associate at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute in Portland.
"Conversely, will they eat invasive #GreenCrabs that feast on juvenile clams and have decimated the clam population in some parts of Maine. Blue crabs have been credited with keeping the green crab population in check in the Chesapeake Bay."
Read more:
https://www.islandinstitute.org/working-waterfront/blue-crabs-on-the-rise-in-maine-waters/#SolarPunkSunday #InvasiveSpecies #ClimateChange #ClimateChangeAdaptation
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#BlueCrabs on the rise in #Maine waters
Growing population raises questions about impacts, good and bad
By Clarke Canfield
Posted 2023-12-01Excerpt: "In the wild, blue crabs are eaten by large fish, some fish-eating birds, and sea turtles, according to NOAA Fisheries. But it’s what crabs themselves eat that is raising questions in the #GulfOfMaine.
"Blue crabs are major predators of ocean-bottom communities and will eat almost anything, including clams, oysters, mussels, small crustaceans, freshly dead fish, and plants. They’ll also eat smaller and soft-shelled blue crabs.
"In Maine, one question is whether blue crabs pose a threat to juvenile lobsters that are abundant and serve as the foundation of Maine’s lobster fishery. 'Blue crabs are one of the most aggressive crab species and pose predatory and habitat threats to lobsters,' said Aaron Whitman, a senior research associate at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute in Portland.
"Conversely, will they eat invasive #GreenCrabs that feast on juvenile clams and have decimated the clam population in some parts of Maine. Blue crabs have been credited with keeping the green crab population in check in the Chesapeake Bay."
Read more:
https://www.islandinstitute.org/working-waterfront/blue-crabs-on-the-rise-in-maine-waters/#SolarPunkSunday #InvasiveSpecies #ClimateChange #ClimateChangeAdaptation
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#BlueCrabs on the rise in #Maine waters
Growing population raises questions about impacts, good and bad
By Clarke Canfield
Posted 2023-12-01Excerpt: "In the wild, blue crabs are eaten by large fish, some fish-eating birds, and sea turtles, according to NOAA Fisheries. But it’s what crabs themselves eat that is raising questions in the #GulfOfMaine.
"Blue crabs are major predators of ocean-bottom communities and will eat almost anything, including clams, oysters, mussels, small crustaceans, freshly dead fish, and plants. They’ll also eat smaller and soft-shelled blue crabs.
"In Maine, one question is whether blue crabs pose a threat to juvenile lobsters that are abundant and serve as the foundation of Maine’s lobster fishery. 'Blue crabs are one of the most aggressive crab species and pose predatory and habitat threats to lobsters,' said Aaron Whitman, a senior research associate at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute in Portland.
"Conversely, will they eat invasive #GreenCrabs that feast on juvenile clams and have decimated the clam population in some parts of Maine. Blue crabs have been credited with keeping the green crab population in check in the Chesapeake Bay."
Read more:
https://www.islandinstitute.org/working-waterfront/blue-crabs-on-the-rise-in-maine-waters/#SolarPunkSunday #InvasiveSpecies #ClimateChange #ClimateChangeAdaptation
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Invasive #GreenCrabs: Implications & How to Utilize Them
by Mary Parks, June 15, 2023
"Green crabs were first spotted in Casco Bay in the early 1900s after moving northward from Massachusetts waters where they were introduced a century before. In recent years, green crabs have become Maine’s most common crab species, wreaking havoc on some of the state’s most valuable fisheries and vulnerable ecosystems. Cold winters that historically kept green crab populations in check are no longer common and as #ClimateChange continues to warm the #GulfOfMaine, green crab populations could increase. This invasive species has singlehandedly destroyed the soft-shell clam fishery (a single green crab can eat up to 40 clams in a day), compete with local crabs and lobster for food, and destroy important eelgrass habitats.
"Many have launched diversified efforts to monitor green crabs, control their populations, prevent predation of clams, and spread awareness of their invasive impact.
"Wolfe’s Neck Center has been utilizing green crabs as #compost for years, collecting them from coastal waters to utilize as a nutrient source and educating visitors on the impact of green crabs. Last year alone, Wolfe’s Neck Center’s farm team composted 12,000 pounds (about twice the weight of an elephant) of green crabs.
"In this post, we will go over a basic recipe for cooking with green crabs and tips for using the remaining shells as compost in your garden, so you can be part of the solution at home!"
Learn more:
https://www.wolfesneck.org/green-crabs-an-invasive-species/#SolarPunkSunday #Composting #GreenCrabRecipes #invasivespecies #ClimateChangeAdaptation #WolfesNeck #Maine
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Invasive #GreenCrabs: Implications & How to Utilize Them
by Mary Parks, June 15, 2023
"Green crabs were first spotted in Casco Bay in the early 1900s after moving northward from Massachusetts waters where they were introduced a century before. In recent years, green crabs have become Maine’s most common crab species, wreaking havoc on some of the state’s most valuable fisheries and vulnerable ecosystems. Cold winters that historically kept green crab populations in check are no longer common and as #ClimateChange continues to warm the #GulfOfMaine, green crab populations could increase. This invasive species has singlehandedly destroyed the soft-shell clam fishery (a single green crab can eat up to 40 clams in a day), compete with local crabs and lobster for food, and destroy important eelgrass habitats.
"Many have launched diversified efforts to monitor green crabs, control their populations, prevent predation of clams, and spread awareness of their invasive impact.
"Wolfe’s Neck Center has been utilizing green crabs as #compost for years, collecting them from coastal waters to utilize as a nutrient source and educating visitors on the impact of green crabs. Last year alone, Wolfe’s Neck Center’s farm team composted 12,000 pounds (about twice the weight of an elephant) of green crabs.
"In this post, we will go over a basic recipe for cooking with green crabs and tips for using the remaining shells as compost in your garden, so you can be part of the solution at home!"
Learn more:
https://www.wolfesneck.org/green-crabs-an-invasive-species/#SolarPunkSunday #Composting #GreenCrabRecipes #invasivespecies #ClimateChangeAdaptation #WolfesNeck #Maine
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Invasive #GreenCrabs: Implications & How to Utilize Them
by Mary Parks, June 15, 2023
"Green crabs were first spotted in Casco Bay in the early 1900s after moving northward from Massachusetts waters where they were introduced a century before. In recent years, green crabs have become Maine’s most common crab species, wreaking havoc on some of the state’s most valuable fisheries and vulnerable ecosystems. Cold winters that historically kept green crab populations in check are no longer common and as #ClimateChange continues to warm the #GulfOfMaine, green crab populations could increase. This invasive species has singlehandedly destroyed the soft-shell clam fishery (a single green crab can eat up to 40 clams in a day), compete with local crabs and lobster for food, and destroy important eelgrass habitats.
"Many have launched diversified efforts to monitor green crabs, control their populations, prevent predation of clams, and spread awareness of their invasive impact.
"Wolfe’s Neck Center has been utilizing green crabs as #compost for years, collecting them from coastal waters to utilize as a nutrient source and educating visitors on the impact of green crabs. Last year alone, Wolfe’s Neck Center’s farm team composted 12,000 pounds (about twice the weight of an elephant) of green crabs.
"In this post, we will go over a basic recipe for cooking with green crabs and tips for using the remaining shells as compost in your garden, so you can be part of the solution at home!"
Learn more:
https://www.wolfesneck.org/green-crabs-an-invasive-species/#SolarPunkSunday #Composting #GreenCrabRecipes #invasivespecies #ClimateChangeAdaptation #WolfesNeck #Maine
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Invasive #GreenCrabs: Implications & How to Utilize Them
by Mary Parks, June 15, 2023
"Green crabs were first spotted in Casco Bay in the early 1900s after moving northward from Massachusetts waters where they were introduced a century before. In recent years, green crabs have become Maine’s most common crab species, wreaking havoc on some of the state’s most valuable fisheries and vulnerable ecosystems. Cold winters that historically kept green crab populations in check are no longer common and as #ClimateChange continues to warm the #GulfOfMaine, green crab populations could increase. This invasive species has singlehandedly destroyed the soft-shell clam fishery (a single green crab can eat up to 40 clams in a day), compete with local crabs and lobster for food, and destroy important eelgrass habitats.
"Many have launched diversified efforts to monitor green crabs, control their populations, prevent predation of clams, and spread awareness of their invasive impact.
"Wolfe’s Neck Center has been utilizing green crabs as #compost for years, collecting them from coastal waters to utilize as a nutrient source and educating visitors on the impact of green crabs. Last year alone, Wolfe’s Neck Center’s farm team composted 12,000 pounds (about twice the weight of an elephant) of green crabs.
"In this post, we will go over a basic recipe for cooking with green crabs and tips for using the remaining shells as compost in your garden, so you can be part of the solution at home!"
Learn more:
https://www.wolfesneck.org/green-crabs-an-invasive-species/#SolarPunkSunday #Composting #GreenCrabRecipes #invasivespecies #ClimateChangeAdaptation #WolfesNeck #Maine
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Invasive #GreenCrabs: Implications & How to Utilize Them
by Mary Parks, June 15, 2023
"Green crabs were first spotted in Casco Bay in the early 1900s after moving northward from Massachusetts waters where they were introduced a century before. In recent years, green crabs have become Maine’s most common crab species, wreaking havoc on some of the state’s most valuable fisheries and vulnerable ecosystems. Cold winters that historically kept green crab populations in check are no longer common and as #ClimateChange continues to warm the #GulfOfMaine, green crab populations could increase. This invasive species has singlehandedly destroyed the soft-shell clam fishery (a single green crab can eat up to 40 clams in a day), compete with local crabs and lobster for food, and destroy important eelgrass habitats.
"Many have launched diversified efforts to monitor green crabs, control their populations, prevent predation of clams, and spread awareness of their invasive impact.
"Wolfe’s Neck Center has been utilizing green crabs as #compost for years, collecting them from coastal waters to utilize as a nutrient source and educating visitors on the impact of green crabs. Last year alone, Wolfe’s Neck Center’s farm team composted 12,000 pounds (about twice the weight of an elephant) of green crabs.
"In this post, we will go over a basic recipe for cooking with green crabs and tips for using the remaining shells as compost in your garden, so you can be part of the solution at home!"
Learn more:
https://www.wolfesneck.org/green-crabs-an-invasive-species/#SolarPunkSunday #Composting #GreenCrabRecipes #invasivespecies #ClimateChangeAdaptation #WolfesNeck #Maine
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Rare image of great white shark captured off the coast of Maine
The nonprofit National Geographic Society, committed to illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world, funded Explorer Brian…
#NewsBeep #News #US #USA #UnitedStates #UnitedStatesOfAmerica #Wildlife #BrianSkerry #greatwhiteshark #GulfofMaine #Harpswell #JohnChisholm #Maine #marineanimals #NationalGeographicExplorer #NationalGeographicSociety #Science
https://www.newsbeep.com/us/11398/ -
Rare image of great white shark captured off the coast of Maine
The nonprofit National Geographic Society, committed to illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world, funded Explorer Brian…
#NewsBeep #News #US #USA #UnitedStates #UnitedStatesOfAmerica #Wildlife #BrianSkerry #greatwhiteshark #GulfofMaine #Harpswell #JohnChisholm #Maine #marineanimals #NationalGeographicExplorer #NationalGeographicSociety #Science
https://www.newsbeep.com/us/11398/ -
Rare image of great white shark captured off the coast of Maine
The nonprofit National Geographic Society, committed to illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world, funded Explorer Brian…
#NewsBeep #News #US #USA #UnitedStates #UnitedStatesOfAmerica #Wildlife #BrianSkerry #greatwhiteshark #GulfofMaine #Harpswell #JohnChisholm #Maine #marineanimals #NationalGeographicExplorer #NationalGeographicSociety #Science
https://www.newsbeep.com/us/11398/ -
Rare image of great white shark captured off the coast of Maine
The nonprofit National Geographic Society, committed to illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world, funded Explorer Brian…
#NewsBeep #News #US #USA #UnitedStates #UnitedStatesOfAmerica #Wildlife #BrianSkerry #greatwhiteshark #GulfofMaine #Harpswell #JohnChisholm #Maine #marineanimals #NationalGeographicExplorer #NationalGeographicSociety #Science
https://www.newsbeep.com/us/11398/ -
Why the #GulfOfMaine Surface Ocean Waters are Warming Faster than Elsewhere
Posted on July 23, 2024Written by Rob Moir, Ph.D. No Comments
"None of us are strangers to the reports of the Gulf of Maine heating 97% faster than the world’s oceans. However, the actual reasons for this can be lost in the constant headlines about global warming and rising greenhouse gases. To explain this extraordinary phenomenon, let’s look closely at four factors: surface seawater temperatures, heat severity, air temperature, and rainfall, monthly for five years."
#WarmingOceans #ClimateCatastrophe #Climate #Maine #NewEngland #AlgalBloom #HABs #ToxicAlgae
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Why the #GulfOfMaine Surface Ocean Waters are Warming Faster than Elsewhere
Posted on July 23, 2024Written by Rob Moir, Ph.D. No Comments
"None of us are strangers to the reports of the Gulf of Maine heating 97% faster than the world’s oceans. However, the actual reasons for this can be lost in the constant headlines about global warming and rising greenhouse gases. To explain this extraordinary phenomenon, let’s look closely at four factors: surface seawater temperatures, heat severity, air temperature, and rainfall, monthly for five years."
#WarmingOceans #ClimateCatastrophe #Climate #Maine #NewEngland #AlgalBloom #HABs #ToxicAlgae
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Why the #GulfOfMaine Surface Ocean Waters are Warming Faster than Elsewhere
Posted on July 23, 2024Written by Rob Moir, Ph.D. No Comments
"None of us are strangers to the reports of the Gulf of Maine heating 97% faster than the world’s oceans. However, the actual reasons for this can be lost in the constant headlines about global warming and rising greenhouse gases. To explain this extraordinary phenomenon, let’s look closely at four factors: surface seawater temperatures, heat severity, air temperature, and rainfall, monthly for five years."
#WarmingOceans #ClimateCatastrophe #Climate #Maine #NewEngland #AlgalBloom #HABs #ToxicAlgae
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Why the #GulfOfMaine Surface Ocean Waters are Warming Faster than Elsewhere
Posted on July 23, 2024Written by Rob Moir, Ph.D. No Comments
"None of us are strangers to the reports of the Gulf of Maine heating 97% faster than the world’s oceans. However, the actual reasons for this can be lost in the constant headlines about global warming and rising greenhouse gases. To explain this extraordinary phenomenon, let’s look closely at four factors: surface seawater temperatures, heat severity, air temperature, and rainfall, monthly for five years."
#WarmingOceans #ClimateCatastrophe #Climate #Maine #NewEngland #AlgalBloom #HABs #ToxicAlgae
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Why the #GulfOfMaine Surface Ocean Waters are Warming Faster than Elsewhere
Posted on July 23, 2024Written by Rob Moir, Ph.D. No Comments
"None of us are strangers to the reports of the Gulf of Maine heating 97% faster than the world’s oceans. However, the actual reasons for this can be lost in the constant headlines about global warming and rising greenhouse gases. To explain this extraordinary phenomenon, let’s look closely at four factors: surface seawater temperatures, heat severity, air temperature, and rainfall, monthly for five years."
#WarmingOceans #ClimateCatastrophe #Climate #Maine #NewEngland #AlgalBloom #HABs #ToxicAlgae
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Senator #AngusKing fumes at #ClimateChange being nixed from annual threat assessment
Chris D’Angelo for The Maine Monitor April 8, 2025
"#Maine has been described as a 'climate haven,' [the same for #Vermont] a place expected to remain relatively sheltered from the most extreme and dangerous impacts of global climate change. But the #PineTreeState is far from immune.
"Fossil fuel-driven climate change is intensifying #HeatWaves, #flooding and other #ExtremeWeather events. Waters in the #GulfOfMaine are warming faster than nearly every other swath of ocean on the planet, threatening the future of the state’s signature #lobster industry and other #fisheries.
"Sea levels here are forecast to rise approximately 4 feet by the end of the century, forcing coastal communities, shipyards and military installations to prepare and adapt.
" 'This is a guaranteed threat,' said #AmyEshoo, director of #MaineClimateActionNow. 'It’s not one we can negotiate with. It’s not one that we can put #tariffs on. It’s not one we can go to the table with. We unleashed it. It’s here. We’re feeling its effects. Maine is definitely feeling them.' "
Read more:
https://mainebeacon.com/sen-king-fumes-at-climate-change-being-nixed-from-annual-threat-assessment/#MaineWx #ClimateCatastrophe #SeaLevelRise #SenatorAngusKing
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10 Things We’ve Learned About #PFAS in #CascoBay
Last updated: April 17, 2024
"Concerns about PFAS have surfaced as more of #Maine’s lands and waters are tested. Before 2023, no one had gathered samples from the marine waters of Casco Bay yet. Last year, #FriendsOfCascoBay and Bigelow Laboratories for Ocean Sciences partnered up to test for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Casco Bay. We’ve gathered the results from our first year of samples and have learned some interesting things about PFAS along the way.
1. We found PFAS at all 18 sites we sampled in Casco Bay in 2023.
2. Research shows PFAS to have serious and long-term health consequences.
3. PFAS have been manufactured since the 1940s.
Read more:
https://www.cascobay.org/10-things-weve-learned-about-pfas-in-casco-bay/#PFASPollution #WaterIsLife
#OceansAreLife #PollutionRunoff #WebOfLife #Maine #GulfOfMaine -
10 Things We’ve Learned About #PFAS in #CascoBay
Last updated: April 17, 2024
"Concerns about PFAS have surfaced as more of #Maine’s lands and waters are tested. Before 2023, no one had gathered samples from the marine waters of Casco Bay yet. Last year, #FriendsOfCascoBay and Bigelow Laboratories for Ocean Sciences partnered up to test for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Casco Bay. We’ve gathered the results from our first year of samples and have learned some interesting things about PFAS along the way.
1. We found PFAS at all 18 sites we sampled in Casco Bay in 2023.
2. Research shows PFAS to have serious and long-term health consequences.
3. PFAS have been manufactured since the 1940s.
Read more:
https://www.cascobay.org/10-things-weve-learned-about-pfas-in-casco-bay/#PFASPollution #WaterIsLife
#OceansAreLife #PollutionRunoff #WebOfLife #Maine #GulfOfMaine -
10 Things We’ve Learned About #PFAS in #CascoBay
Last updated: April 17, 2024
"Concerns about PFAS have surfaced as more of #Maine’s lands and waters are tested. Before 2023, no one had gathered samples from the marine waters of Casco Bay yet. Last year, #FriendsOfCascoBay and Bigelow Laboratories for Ocean Sciences partnered up to test for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Casco Bay. We’ve gathered the results from our first year of samples and have learned some interesting things about PFAS along the way.
1. We found PFAS at all 18 sites we sampled in Casco Bay in 2023.
2. Research shows PFAS to have serious and long-term health consequences.
3. PFAS have been manufactured since the 1940s.
Read more:
https://www.cascobay.org/10-things-weve-learned-about-pfas-in-casco-bay/#PFASPollution #WaterIsLife
#OceansAreLife #PollutionRunoff #WebOfLife #Maine #GulfOfMaine -
10 Things We’ve Learned About #PFAS in #CascoBay
Last updated: April 17, 2024
"Concerns about PFAS have surfaced as more of #Maine’s lands and waters are tested. Before 2023, no one had gathered samples from the marine waters of Casco Bay yet. Last year, #FriendsOfCascoBay and Bigelow Laboratories for Ocean Sciences partnered up to test for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Casco Bay. We’ve gathered the results from our first year of samples and have learned some interesting things about PFAS along the way.
1. We found PFAS at all 18 sites we sampled in Casco Bay in 2023.
2. Research shows PFAS to have serious and long-term health consequences.
3. PFAS have been manufactured since the 1940s.
Read more:
https://www.cascobay.org/10-things-weve-learned-about-pfas-in-casco-bay/#PFASPollution #WaterIsLife
#OceansAreLife #PollutionRunoff #WebOfLife #Maine #GulfOfMaine -
10 Things We’ve Learned About #PFAS in #CascoBay
Last updated: April 17, 2024
"Concerns about PFAS have surfaced as more of #Maine’s lands and waters are tested. Before 2023, no one had gathered samples from the marine waters of Casco Bay yet. Last year, #FriendsOfCascoBay and Bigelow Laboratories for Ocean Sciences partnered up to test for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Casco Bay. We’ve gathered the results from our first year of samples and have learned some interesting things about PFAS along the way.
1. We found PFAS at all 18 sites we sampled in Casco Bay in 2023.
2. Research shows PFAS to have serious and long-term health consequences.
3. PFAS have been manufactured since the 1940s.
Read more:
https://www.cascobay.org/10-things-weve-learned-about-pfas-in-casco-bay/#PFASPollution #WaterIsLife
#OceansAreLife #PollutionRunoff #WebOfLife #Maine #GulfOfMaine -
Half of all #eelgrass in #CascoBay has died within last four years, experts say
Eelgrass, according to Friends of Casco Bay, is home to juvenile lobster and fish. Without eelgrass, much of Maine's seafood economy loses its base, they said.
By Jack Molmud
March 29, 2023SOUTH PORTLAND, #Maine — According to a report from Friends of Casco Bay, 54 percent of all eelgrass meadows in Casco Bay have died off since 2018.
"This comes as the 2022 to 2023 winter saw water temps reach four degrees above average.
"'My first response was it's heartbreaking,' Will Everitt, the executive director of Friends of Casco Bay said. 'My second response was now is the time we have to do more than ever to protect the bay.'
"Everitt said eelgrass is dying due to a combination of consequences from the warm water.
"Warm water attracts more invasive #GreenCrabs, which cut the eelgrass and eat softshell crabs, he said. This disturbs the naturally-occurring species, he said.
"'When we have a really cold winter it can kill back the green crabs,' Everitt said.
"He added a warm winter won't kill as many green crabs, allowing them to reproduce and spawn more green crabs for summer and fall.
"'The loss of this is tragic and could have a huge impact on our coastal waters,' Everitt said.
"Everitt added the #WarmingOceans in Maine also result in more frequent #AlgaeBlooms, which prevent the eelgrass from accessing proper sunlight to grow.
"Fewer eelgrass meadows mean fewer lobsters in inshore waters, he added.
"'A number of critters in the bay depend on this... the warming waters are going to do a number on this if it continues,' Everitt said.
"If the situation continues to worsen, Everitt suggested experts would recommend planting eelgrass from more southern states so that subspecies can handle the warmer temperatures Maine is set to experience."
#FriendsOfCascoBay #SaltMarshes #SaveTheWetlands #EelGrass #SaveTheWetlands
#SaveTheMarshes #ProtectNature #NewEngland #GulfOfMaine -
Half of all #eelgrass in #CascoBay has died within last four years, experts say
Eelgrass, according to Friends of Casco Bay, is home to juvenile lobster and fish. Without eelgrass, much of Maine's seafood economy loses its base, they said.
By Jack Molmud
March 29, 2023SOUTH PORTLAND, #Maine — According to a report from Friends of Casco Bay, 54 percent of all eelgrass meadows in Casco Bay have died off since 2018.
"This comes as the 2022 to 2023 winter saw water temps reach four degrees above average.
"'My first response was it's heartbreaking,' Will Everitt, the executive director of Friends of Casco Bay said. 'My second response was now is the time we have to do more than ever to protect the bay.'
"Everitt said eelgrass is dying due to a combination of consequences from the warm water.
"Warm water attracts more invasive #GreenCrabs, which cut the eelgrass and eat softshell crabs, he said. This disturbs the naturally-occurring species, he said.
"'When we have a really cold winter it can kill back the green crabs,' Everitt said.
"He added a warm winter won't kill as many green crabs, allowing them to reproduce and spawn more green crabs for summer and fall.
"'The loss of this is tragic and could have a huge impact on our coastal waters,' Everitt said.
"Everitt added the #WarmingOceans in Maine also result in more frequent #AlgaeBlooms, which prevent the eelgrass from accessing proper sunlight to grow.
"Fewer eelgrass meadows mean fewer lobsters in inshore waters, he added.
"'A number of critters in the bay depend on this... the warming waters are going to do a number on this if it continues,' Everitt said.
"If the situation continues to worsen, Everitt suggested experts would recommend planting eelgrass from more southern states so that subspecies can handle the warmer temperatures Maine is set to experience."
#FriendsOfCascoBay #SaltMarshes #SaveTheWetlands #EelGrass #SaveTheWetlands
#SaveTheMarshes #ProtectNature #NewEngland #GulfOfMaine -
Half of all #eelgrass in #CascoBay has died within last four years, experts say
Eelgrass, according to Friends of Casco Bay, is home to juvenile lobster and fish. Without eelgrass, much of Maine's seafood economy loses its base, they said.
By Jack Molmud
March 29, 2023SOUTH PORTLAND, #Maine — According to a report from Friends of Casco Bay, 54 percent of all eelgrass meadows in Casco Bay have died off since 2018.
"This comes as the 2022 to 2023 winter saw water temps reach four degrees above average.
"'My first response was it's heartbreaking,' Will Everitt, the executive director of Friends of Casco Bay said. 'My second response was now is the time we have to do more than ever to protect the bay.'
"Everitt said eelgrass is dying due to a combination of consequences from the warm water.
"Warm water attracts more invasive #GreenCrabs, which cut the eelgrass and eat softshell crabs, he said. This disturbs the naturally-occurring species, he said.
"'When we have a really cold winter it can kill back the green crabs,' Everitt said.
"He added a warm winter won't kill as many green crabs, allowing them to reproduce and spawn more green crabs for summer and fall.
"'The loss of this is tragic and could have a huge impact on our coastal waters,' Everitt said.
"Everitt added the #WarmingOceans in Maine also result in more frequent #AlgaeBlooms, which prevent the eelgrass from accessing proper sunlight to grow.
"Fewer eelgrass meadows mean fewer lobsters in inshore waters, he added.
"'A number of critters in the bay depend on this... the warming waters are going to do a number on this if it continues,' Everitt said.
"If the situation continues to worsen, Everitt suggested experts would recommend planting eelgrass from more southern states so that subspecies can handle the warmer temperatures Maine is set to experience."
#FriendsOfCascoBay #SaltMarshes #SaveTheWetlands #EelGrass #SaveTheWetlands
#SaveTheMarshes #ProtectNature #NewEngland #GulfOfMaine -
Letter: Save #SearsIsland
by Opinion Contributor
June 17, 2024"The article '#SpragueEnergy pushes #WindPort' in the June 15 Bangor Daily News Business section highlights the perfectly reasonable argument that #MackPoint should be reconsidered as the site for the proposed wind port. According to Jim Therriault, vice president of materials handling for Sprague, new information is available from research and studies. Things have changed since the state first targeted Sears Island. The arguments of dredging, construction costs and environmental concerns all have new facts and figures since the state (prematurely?) made the executive decision to use Sears Island for the wind port.
"Those who want to save Sears Island from the wind port construction that I believe would be the destruction of that beautiful local treasure sincerely hope that the state will do the responsible and reasonable thing. That they will take a good, strong look at what Sprague is offering.
"Hopefully, the decision to use Sears Island is not cast in stone and is reversible if facts warrant it.
"Too much is at stake to allow the state to stubbornly refuse to reconsider a decision this important. Someone in an impartial position needs to come to the table and study the facts. The new facts. If possible, let’s save Sears Island!"
- Sue Shaw
Penobscot, Mainehttps://www.bangordailynews.com/2024/06/17/opinion/letters/save-sears-island-wind-port-mack-point/
#ProtectNature #Nature #GulfOfMaine #Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism #PenobscotBay #Greenwashing #JanetMills -
#SpragueEnergy Unveils Alternative, Lower-Impact Plan for Floating #OffshoreWind at Its #MackPoint Terminal in #Maine
Harnessing Existing Infrastructure, Sequestering Tons of #Carbon Per Year and Protecting 100 Acres of Undisturbed Natural Habitat on and off #SearsIsland
June 6, 2024 /PRNewswire
"'Building a wind port on Sears Island means more than 75 acres of upland forest will be cleared, graded, and compacted. It also means filling 25 acres of pristine #PenobscotBay to extend the shoreline where a previously protected ocean sand dune is located,' said Rolf E. Olsen, vice president of #FriendsOfSearsIsland, a volunteer nonprofit organization that manages the conservation area on behalf of the people of Maine and supports the idea of a #WindPort in #Searsport.
"Olsen continued, 'That estimate by the State does not include the additional impact from a new and greatly expanded approach road and rail bed to get to the facility. This seriously damages the island's #ecological, recreational, and economic value. Re-developing Mack Point - which has thrived as an industrial site for more than a century - is a far better and less disruptive decision, and the State has previously stated that it meets the requirements for the port.'
"On April 24, the #MaineDOT issued a request for information seeking public input on Maine's commercial offshore wind solicitation approach and implementation. Public opinions should be emailed to [email protected] before the June 21st deadline. More information is available on the Maine.gov website."
https://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2024/06/06/10024531.htm
#ProtectNature #Nature #GulfOfMaine #Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism #PenobscotBay #Greenwashing #JanetMills -
What this article doesn't mention is all the other plans to develop #SearsIsland, that are contingent on #MDOT's and #GovernorJanetMills getting their way!
[Paywall] The plans for #Maine’s floating #WindPort, explained
May 31, 2024
Why Sears Island?
"This question remains a big sticking point for what appears to be a number of local residents, some environmental organizations and midcoast advocacy groups, and those who are simply opposed to offshore wind development entirely.
"They argue that industrialized #MackPoint in #SearsportMaine is the best place for a wind port.
"'There’s such a sensible alternative 800 yards away — a 105-year-old working port, with a terminal operator that is ready, willing and able to take on the project and not to jeopardize their other operations,' said #DavidItaliaander, a Searsport resident and board member for #FriendsOfSearsIsland. The group maintains the island’s vast network of trails.
"#SpragueEnergy owns Mack Point and appears to be making its own push to host the state’s wind port. The company has said that its existing #industrial #waterfront could be repurposed to support Maine’s plans. And Sprague said it has a new alternative plan that addresses some of the concerns the state has identified.
"But there is a coalition of other conservation organizations, labor groups, the Maine Chamber of Commerce and others that want to see Sears Island redeveloped as a wind port and support the state’s plan.
"Maine DOT already owns the land that it wants to develop. The state also says that Sears Island wouldn’t require dredging, but Sprague has said those requirements would be reduced under its new plan.
In the meantime, Italiaander and other Sears Island advocacy groups are poring through the details of DOT’s federal grant application."DOT, for example, has proposed relocating the Sears Island access road so it would cut through a corner of the #conservation area.
"That’s a concern, Italiaander said. Burns acknowledged that the land is protected and said the proposed road relocation is intended to better bifurcate the island into its two potential uses — port activity and recreation.
"The debate over Sears Island will ramp up in the coming weeks and months.
"Sprague Energy will host an event next month at the Mack Point terminal, where company leaders are expected to present their own alternative wind port design.
"And #MaineDOT is expected to release a much-anticipated analysis of alternative sites, which will include Mack Point."
#WindPort #GulfOfMaine #Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism #PenobscotBay #Maine #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik #CulturalGenocide #Greenwashing -
What this article doesn't mention is all the other plans to develop #SearsIsland, that are contingent on #MDOT's and #GovernorJanetMills getting their way!
[Paywall] The plans for #Maine’s floating #WindPort, explained
May 31, 2024
Why Sears Island?
"This question remains a big sticking point for what appears to be a number of local residents, some environmental organizations and midcoast advocacy groups, and those who are simply opposed to offshore wind development entirely.
"They argue that industrialized #MackPoint in #SearsportMaine is the best place for a wind port.
"'There’s such a sensible alternative 800 yards away — a 105-year-old working port, with a terminal operator that is ready, willing and able to take on the project and not to jeopardize their other operations,' said #DavidItaliaander, a Searsport resident and board member for #FriendsOfSearsIsland. The group maintains the island’s vast network of trails.
"#SpragueEnergy owns Mack Point and appears to be making its own push to host the state’s wind port. The company has said that its existing #industrial #waterfront could be repurposed to support Maine’s plans. And Sprague said it has a new alternative plan that addresses some of the concerns the state has identified.
"But there is a coalition of other conservation organizations, labor groups, the Maine Chamber of Commerce and others that want to see Sears Island redeveloped as a wind port and support the state’s plan.
"Maine DOT already owns the land that it wants to develop. The state also says that Sears Island wouldn’t require dredging, but Sprague has said those requirements would be reduced under its new plan.
In the meantime, Italiaander and other Sears Island advocacy groups are poring through the details of DOT’s federal grant application."DOT, for example, has proposed relocating the Sears Island access road so it would cut through a corner of the #conservation area.
"That’s a concern, Italiaander said. Burns acknowledged that the land is protected and said the proposed road relocation is intended to better bifurcate the island into its two potential uses — port activity and recreation.
"The debate over Sears Island will ramp up in the coming weeks and months.
"Sprague Energy will host an event next month at the Mack Point terminal, where company leaders are expected to present their own alternative wind port design.
"And #MaineDOT is expected to release a much-anticipated analysis of alternative sites, which will include Mack Point."
#WindPort #GulfOfMaine #Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism #PenobscotBay #Maine #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik #CulturalGenocide #Greenwashing -
What this article doesn't mention is all the other plans to develop #SearsIsland, that are contingent on #MDOT's and #GovernorJanetMills getting their way!
[Paywall] The plans for #Maine’s floating #WindPort, explained
May 31, 2024
Why Sears Island?
"This question remains a big sticking point for what appears to be a number of local residents, some environmental organizations and midcoast advocacy groups, and those who are simply opposed to offshore wind development entirely.
"They argue that industrialized #MackPoint in #SearsportMaine is the best place for a wind port.
"'There’s such a sensible alternative 800 yards away — a 105-year-old working port, with a terminal operator that is ready, willing and able to take on the project and not to jeopardize their other operations,' said #DavidItaliaander, a Searsport resident and board member for #FriendsOfSearsIsland. The group maintains the island’s vast network of trails.
"#SpragueEnergy owns Mack Point and appears to be making its own push to host the state’s wind port. The company has said that its existing #industrial #waterfront could be repurposed to support Maine’s plans. And Sprague said it has a new alternative plan that addresses some of the concerns the state has identified.
"But there is a coalition of other conservation organizations, labor groups, the Maine Chamber of Commerce and others that want to see Sears Island redeveloped as a wind port and support the state’s plan.
"Maine DOT already owns the land that it wants to develop. The state also says that Sears Island wouldn’t require dredging, but Sprague has said those requirements would be reduced under its new plan.
In the meantime, Italiaander and other Sears Island advocacy groups are poring through the details of DOT’s federal grant application."DOT, for example, has proposed relocating the Sears Island access road so it would cut through a corner of the #conservation area.
"That’s a concern, Italiaander said. Burns acknowledged that the land is protected and said the proposed road relocation is intended to better bifurcate the island into its two potential uses — port activity and recreation.
"The debate over Sears Island will ramp up in the coming weeks and months.
"Sprague Energy will host an event next month at the Mack Point terminal, where company leaders are expected to present their own alternative wind port design.
"And #MaineDOT is expected to release a much-anticipated analysis of alternative sites, which will include Mack Point."
#WindPort #GulfOfMaine #Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism #PenobscotBay #Maine #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik #CulturalGenocide #Greenwashing -
What this article doesn't mention is all the other plans to develop #SearsIsland, that are contingent on #MDOT's and #GovernorJanetMills getting their way!
[Paywall] The plans for #Maine’s floating #WindPort, explained
May 31, 2024
Why Sears Island?
"This question remains a big sticking point for what appears to be a number of local residents, some environmental organizations and midcoast advocacy groups, and those who are simply opposed to offshore wind development entirely.
"They argue that industrialized #MackPoint in #SearsportMaine is the best place for a wind port.
"'There’s such a sensible alternative 800 yards away — a 105-year-old working port, with a terminal operator that is ready, willing and able to take on the project and not to jeopardize their other operations,' said #DavidItaliaander, a Searsport resident and board member for #FriendsOfSearsIsland. The group maintains the island’s vast network of trails.
"#SpragueEnergy owns Mack Point and appears to be making its own push to host the state’s wind port. The company has said that its existing #industrial #waterfront could be repurposed to support Maine’s plans. And Sprague said it has a new alternative plan that addresses some of the concerns the state has identified.
"But there is a coalition of other conservation organizations, labor groups, the Maine Chamber of Commerce and others that want to see Sears Island redeveloped as a wind port and support the state’s plan.
"Maine DOT already owns the land that it wants to develop. The state also says that Sears Island wouldn’t require dredging, but Sprague has said those requirements would be reduced under its new plan.
In the meantime, Italiaander and other Sears Island advocacy groups are poring through the details of DOT’s federal grant application."DOT, for example, has proposed relocating the Sears Island access road so it would cut through a corner of the #conservation area.
"That’s a concern, Italiaander said. Burns acknowledged that the land is protected and said the proposed road relocation is intended to better bifurcate the island into its two potential uses — port activity and recreation.
"The debate over Sears Island will ramp up in the coming weeks and months.
"Sprague Energy will host an event next month at the Mack Point terminal, where company leaders are expected to present their own alternative wind port design.
"And #MaineDOT is expected to release a much-anticipated analysis of alternative sites, which will include Mack Point."
#WindPort #GulfOfMaine #Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism #PenobscotBay #Maine #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik #CulturalGenocide #Greenwashing -
What this article doesn't mention is all the other plans to develop #SearsIsland, that are contingent on #MDOT's and #GovernorJanetMills getting their way!
[Paywall] The plans for #Maine’s floating #WindPort, explained
May 31, 2024
Why Sears Island?
"This question remains a big sticking point for what appears to be a number of local residents, some environmental organizations and midcoast advocacy groups, and those who are simply opposed to offshore wind development entirely.
"They argue that industrialized #MackPoint in #SearsportMaine is the best place for a wind port.
"'There’s such a sensible alternative 800 yards away — a 105-year-old working port, with a terminal operator that is ready, willing and able to take on the project and not to jeopardize their other operations,' said #DavidItaliaander, a Searsport resident and board member for #FriendsOfSearsIsland. The group maintains the island’s vast network of trails.
"#SpragueEnergy owns Mack Point and appears to be making its own push to host the state’s wind port. The company has said that its existing #industrial #waterfront could be repurposed to support Maine’s plans. And Sprague said it has a new alternative plan that addresses some of the concerns the state has identified.
"But there is a coalition of other conservation organizations, labor groups, the Maine Chamber of Commerce and others that want to see Sears Island redeveloped as a wind port and support the state’s plan.
"Maine DOT already owns the land that it wants to develop. The state also says that Sears Island wouldn’t require dredging, but Sprague has said those requirements would be reduced under its new plan.
In the meantime, Italiaander and other Sears Island advocacy groups are poring through the details of DOT’s federal grant application."DOT, for example, has proposed relocating the Sears Island access road so it would cut through a corner of the #conservation area.
"That’s a concern, Italiaander said. Burns acknowledged that the land is protected and said the proposed road relocation is intended to better bifurcate the island into its two potential uses — port activity and recreation.
"The debate over Sears Island will ramp up in the coming weeks and months.
"Sprague Energy will host an event next month at the Mack Point terminal, where company leaders are expected to present their own alternative wind port design.
"And #MaineDOT is expected to release a much-anticipated analysis of alternative sites, which will include Mack Point."
#WindPort #GulfOfMaine #Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism #PenobscotBay #Maine #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik #CulturalGenocide #Greenwashing -
Not just the #GulfOfMaine waters that are cooling all of a sudden...
Waters off Scotian Shelf are cooling, but scientists can't say for how long
Lower temperatures have scientists wondering if decade-long warming trend is over
Paul Withers · CBC News · Posted: May 08, 2024
"Since 2012, ocean temperatures off Nova Scotia at depth have been consistently warmer — by about two degrees above normal.
"For example, near-bottom warming anomalies were detected in the Cabot Strait between Cape Breton and Newfoundland, Misaine Bank off Cape Breton, Emerald Basin on the Eastern Shore and Lurcher Shoal, Georges Basin and Georges Bank off southern Nova Scotia.
"The large and abrupt warming was enough to constitute a regime shift, said Dave Hebert, an ocean climate scientist who has run the Maritimes survey twice annually for many years.
"Regime shift indicates a persistent change in the structure and function of the ocean ecosystem."
#AMOC #GlacialMelt #ClimateChange #ClimateWeirding #NovaScotia
-
[Paywall -- full text in post] Scientists puzzled by colder deep water temperatures in #GulfOfMaine
by Nicole Ogrysko, Maine Public May 15, 2024
"About a dozen years ago, the Gulf of Maine experienced an #OceanHeatwave unlike any other.
"Today, scientists are puzzling over new data that suggest the gulf may be experiencing another kind of
climate shock."Data collected from buoys placed in the Gulf of Maine show that over the last six months, deep water
temperatures are noticeably lower than the long-term average."'It’s not just cold in the deep waters right now, it’s really cold. And it’s fresher, it’s really fresher than it’s been,' said Nick Record, a senior scientist with Bigelow Laboratory. 'These are very unusual conditions, so I think there’s a lot that we can learn by watching how the year unfolds.'
"The Gulf of Maine is still one of the fastest warming oceans on the planet, Record said. The ocean #heatwave that hit the Gulf of Maine back in 2012 served as a prime example of the kind of surface temperature warming that much of the #AtlanticOcean has been experiencing.
"But #ClimateChange creates more unpredictable conditions, and Record said the Gulf of Maine may be experiencing another kind of #ClimateShock, similar to a late season #frost.
"'In some ways if we’re just expecting long term warming, we could be surprised when, even temporarily, we get these weird reversals to a cold situation. The more we can condition ourselves to think about surprises, what they might mean for us, the more we can be proactive and more be adaptive,' Record said.
"It’s not clear how long this pattern will hold, Record said. Because colder water makes for prime feeding habitat for critically endangered North Atlantic #RightWhales, Record said he’ll watch for whether right whales return to the Gulf of Maine in larger numbers this summer than they have in recent years."Colder deep water may also change conditions for the #lobster population. Deep water temperatures affect the timing of lobster molts, the presence of shell disease and other population impacts, Record said.'"
-
Just like when the #Maine public voted AGAINST the #CMPCorridor through the #NorthWoods!
Public feedback process for decision on #OffshoreWind port a charade, #environmentalists claim
State officials are accused of long favoring #SearsIsland, the largest undeveloped island in #PenobscotBay, as the future site of the port.
Author: Kate Cough of The Maine Monitor
Published: 12:51 PM EDT August 14, 2023PORTLAND, Maine — "Environmentalists are decrying a year-long process meant to gather public feedback on where to build a #deepwater offshore wind port, calling it a 'charade.'
"They say state officials failed to adequately engage the public or #tribal communities and effectively decided where to construct the port long before the process began.
"The Maine Department of Transportation [#MDOT]has been making an internal case for Sears Island while 'giving an illusion of an impartial analysis of port possibilities to the public,' said #MattCannon, the state conservation and energy director for #SierraClubMaine, in comments at the final meeting of the Offshore Wind Port Advisory Group.
"'Some,' he said, 'see it as a breach of public trust.'
"State officials have said they’re considering several locations for the 100-acre port, including #Eastport, #MackPoint and Sears Island, and don’t expect to choose a final location until next year. The officials insist they have not made a final decision.
"But participants in the process, which began in May 2022, say the state has long advocated for Sears Island, the largest #undeveloped island in Penobscot Bay.
"They believe officials have not seriously considered other options for the port, which would be the staging area for equipment needed to build and maintain #Windturbines in federal waters in the #GulfOfMaine.
"Those suspicions hardened after documents released via a public records request submitted by #IslesboroIslandsTrust earlier this year revealed internal discussions seeming to indicate an official preference for the island. #FriendsOfSearsIsland manages the #trails on the conserved portion of the island.
"The documents included a '#Stakeholder Management Plan' written by state-hired consultant Kay Rand. The document said the goals were, in part, to 'develop and execute a stakeholder outreach strategy that would enable #GovernorJanetMills to … announce a commitment to pursue development of Sears Island as the #RenewableEnergy Port of the Northeast.'
"The document is dated Sept. 8, 2021 — eight months before the stakeholder group held its first meeting — and mentions pursuing Sears Island as the port at least four times."
#Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism -
Just like when the #Maine public voted AGAINST the #CMPCorridor through the #NorthWoods!
Public feedback process for decision on #OffshoreWind port a charade, #environmentalists claim
State officials are accused of long favoring #SearsIsland, the largest undeveloped island in #PenobscotBay, as the future site of the port.
Author: Kate Cough of The Maine Monitor
Published: 12:51 PM EDT August 14, 2023PORTLAND, Maine — "Environmentalists are decrying a year-long process meant to gather public feedback on where to build a #deepwater offshore wind port, calling it a 'charade.'
"They say state officials failed to adequately engage the public or #tribal communities and effectively decided where to construct the port long before the process began.
"The Maine Department of Transportation [#MDOT]has been making an internal case for Sears Island while 'giving an illusion of an impartial analysis of port possibilities to the public,' said #MattCannon, the state conservation and energy director for #SierraClubMaine, in comments at the final meeting of the Offshore Wind Port Advisory Group.
"'Some,' he said, 'see it as a breach of public trust.'
"State officials have said they’re considering several locations for the 100-acre port, including #Eastport, #MackPoint and Sears Island, and don’t expect to choose a final location until next year. The officials insist they have not made a final decision.
"But participants in the process, which began in May 2022, say the state has long advocated for Sears Island, the largest #undeveloped island in Penobscot Bay.
"They believe officials have not seriously considered other options for the port, which would be the staging area for equipment needed to build and maintain #Windturbines in federal waters in the #GulfOfMaine.
"Those suspicions hardened after documents released via a public records request submitted by #IslesboroIslandsTrust earlier this year revealed internal discussions seeming to indicate an official preference for the island. #FriendsOfSearsIsland manages the #trails on the conserved portion of the island.
"The documents included a '#Stakeholder Management Plan' written by state-hired consultant Kay Rand. The document said the goals were, in part, to 'develop and execute a stakeholder outreach strategy that would enable #GovernorJanetMills to … announce a commitment to pursue development of Sears Island as the #RenewableEnergy Port of the Northeast.'
"The document is dated Sept. 8, 2021 — eight months before the stakeholder group held its first meeting — and mentions pursuing Sears Island as the port at least four times."
#Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism -
Just like when the #Maine public voted AGAINST the #CMPCorridor through the #NorthWoods!
Public feedback process for decision on #OffshoreWind port a charade, #environmentalists claim
State officials are accused of long favoring #SearsIsland, the largest undeveloped island in #PenobscotBay, as the future site of the port.
Author: Kate Cough of The Maine Monitor
Published: 12:51 PM EDT August 14, 2023PORTLAND, Maine — "Environmentalists are decrying a year-long process meant to gather public feedback on where to build a #deepwater offshore wind port, calling it a 'charade.'
"They say state officials failed to adequately engage the public or #tribal communities and effectively decided where to construct the port long before the process began.
"The Maine Department of Transportation [#MDOT]has been making an internal case for Sears Island while 'giving an illusion of an impartial analysis of port possibilities to the public,' said #MattCannon, the state conservation and energy director for #SierraClubMaine, in comments at the final meeting of the Offshore Wind Port Advisory Group.
"'Some,' he said, 'see it as a breach of public trust.'
"State officials have said they’re considering several locations for the 100-acre port, including #Eastport, #MackPoint and Sears Island, and don’t expect to choose a final location until next year. The officials insist they have not made a final decision.
"But participants in the process, which began in May 2022, say the state has long advocated for Sears Island, the largest #undeveloped island in Penobscot Bay.
"They believe officials have not seriously considered other options for the port, which would be the staging area for equipment needed to build and maintain #Windturbines in federal waters in the #GulfOfMaine.
"Those suspicions hardened after documents released via a public records request submitted by #IslesboroIslandsTrust earlier this year revealed internal discussions seeming to indicate an official preference for the island. #FriendsOfSearsIsland manages the #trails on the conserved portion of the island.
"The documents included a '#Stakeholder Management Plan' written by state-hired consultant Kay Rand. The document said the goals were, in part, to 'develop and execute a stakeholder outreach strategy that would enable #GovernorJanetMills to … announce a commitment to pursue development of Sears Island as the #RenewableEnergy Port of the Northeast.'
"The document is dated Sept. 8, 2021 — eight months before the stakeholder group held its first meeting — and mentions pursuing Sears Island as the port at least four times."
#Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism -
Just like when the #Maine public voted AGAINST the #CMPCorridor through the #NorthWoods!
Public feedback process for decision on #OffshoreWind port a charade, #environmentalists claim
State officials are accused of long favoring #SearsIsland, the largest undeveloped island in #PenobscotBay, as the future site of the port.
Author: Kate Cough of The Maine Monitor
Published: 12:51 PM EDT August 14, 2023PORTLAND, Maine — "Environmentalists are decrying a year-long process meant to gather public feedback on where to build a #deepwater offshore wind port, calling it a 'charade.'
"They say state officials failed to adequately engage the public or #tribal communities and effectively decided where to construct the port long before the process began.
"The Maine Department of Transportation [#MDOT]has been making an internal case for Sears Island while 'giving an illusion of an impartial analysis of port possibilities to the public,' said #MattCannon, the state conservation and energy director for #SierraClubMaine, in comments at the final meeting of the Offshore Wind Port Advisory Group.
"'Some,' he said, 'see it as a breach of public trust.'
"State officials have said they’re considering several locations for the 100-acre port, including #Eastport, #MackPoint and Sears Island, and don’t expect to choose a final location until next year. The officials insist they have not made a final decision.
"But participants in the process, which began in May 2022, say the state has long advocated for Sears Island, the largest #undeveloped island in Penobscot Bay.
"They believe officials have not seriously considered other options for the port, which would be the staging area for equipment needed to build and maintain #Windturbines in federal waters in the #GulfOfMaine.
"Those suspicions hardened after documents released via a public records request submitted by #IslesboroIslandsTrust earlier this year revealed internal discussions seeming to indicate an official preference for the island. #FriendsOfSearsIsland manages the #trails on the conserved portion of the island.
"The documents included a '#Stakeholder Management Plan' written by state-hired consultant Kay Rand. The document said the goals were, in part, to 'develop and execute a stakeholder outreach strategy that would enable #GovernorJanetMills to … announce a commitment to pursue development of Sears Island as the #RenewableEnergy Port of the Northeast.'
"The document is dated Sept. 8, 2021 — eight months before the stakeholder group held its first meeting — and mentions pursuing Sears Island as the port at least four times."
#Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism -
Just like when the #Maine public voted AGAINST the #CMPCorridor through the #NorthWoods!
Public feedback process for decision on #OffshoreWind port a charade, #environmentalists claim
State officials are accused of long favoring #SearsIsland, the largest undeveloped island in #PenobscotBay, as the future site of the port.
Author: Kate Cough of The Maine Monitor
Published: 12:51 PM EDT August 14, 2023PORTLAND, Maine — "Environmentalists are decrying a year-long process meant to gather public feedback on where to build a #deepwater offshore wind port, calling it a 'charade.'
"They say state officials failed to adequately engage the public or #tribal communities and effectively decided where to construct the port long before the process began.
"The Maine Department of Transportation [#MDOT]has been making an internal case for Sears Island while 'giving an illusion of an impartial analysis of port possibilities to the public,' said #MattCannon, the state conservation and energy director for #SierraClubMaine, in comments at the final meeting of the Offshore Wind Port Advisory Group.
"'Some,' he said, 'see it as a breach of public trust.'
"State officials have said they’re considering several locations for the 100-acre port, including #Eastport, #MackPoint and Sears Island, and don’t expect to choose a final location until next year. The officials insist they have not made a final decision.
"But participants in the process, which began in May 2022, say the state has long advocated for Sears Island, the largest #undeveloped island in Penobscot Bay.
"They believe officials have not seriously considered other options for the port, which would be the staging area for equipment needed to build and maintain #Windturbines in federal waters in the #GulfOfMaine.
"Those suspicions hardened after documents released via a public records request submitted by #IslesboroIslandsTrust earlier this year revealed internal discussions seeming to indicate an official preference for the island. #FriendsOfSearsIsland manages the #trails on the conserved portion of the island.
"The documents included a '#Stakeholder Management Plan' written by state-hired consultant Kay Rand. The document said the goals were, in part, to 'develop and execute a stakeholder outreach strategy that would enable #GovernorJanetMills to … announce a commitment to pursue development of Sears Island as the #RenewableEnergy Port of the Northeast.'
"The document is dated Sept. 8, 2021 — eight months before the stakeholder group held its first meeting — and mentions pursuing Sears Island as the port at least four times."
#Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism -
#NewEngland to become the second #coal-free region in the #US. That’s following a settlement between #SierraClub, The Conservation Law Foundation (#CLF), #EPA, and #GraniteShorePower. Retiring #coal plant #SchillerStation, will host a #solar and battery storage system. It will be integral in supporting reliability daily during peak hours and acting as storage for the #offshorewind power now being built off the coast of #MarthasVineyard and in the #GulfofMaine. https://electrek.co/2024/03/29/new-england-second-coal-free-region-us/
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Study confirms #GulfStream warming, shifting toward #MaineCoast
December 19, 2023
"The latest research finds the Gulf Stream has warmed faster than the global ocean over the past two decades, and has shifted toward the #AtlanticCoast.
"Scientists say the ocean current, which carries tropical water up the #EasternSeaboard, has warmed two degrees Fahrenheit since 2001 and could be pushing warmer water into the #GulfOfMaine.
"Robert Todd, an associate scientist with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, said years of data collection confirm what climate models predicted.
"'Long-term ocean observing really is important,' said Todd, 'and we need to keep making those observations so we can understand what’s actually happening in the climate system.'
"Todd said #OceanTemperatures are steadily rising as a result of human activities. He said the findings could determine how changes in the Gulf Stream will impact Maine’s coastal industries.
"The Woods Hole study relied on more than 25,000 ocean temperature and salinity observations collected through the Argo Program — an array of some 4,000 floating robots throughout the global ocean.
"In addition, underwater gliders have slowly navigated the Gulf Stream — revealing warm rings of water, which Todd says could enter the Gulf of Maine and alter marine #environments and species.
"'You can imagine if you have an organism that likes cold water, and suddenly the water is a whole lot warmer because this ring was there,' said Todd, 'those organisms might not be there anymore or might suffer — and then, the fisheries associated with that would suffer.'
"The Gulf of Maine — which stretches from #CapeCod in #Massachusetts to #NovaScotia, #Canada — is already considered one of the fastest-warming ocean regions on the planet.
"Todd said the data collected is shared in real time with scientists around the world."
https://mainebeacon.com/study-confirms-gulf-stream-warming-shifting-toward-maine-coast/
#OceanWarming #ClimateChange #ClimateCatastrophe #Fisheries #MarineEnvironment
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Study confirms #GulfStream warming, shifting toward #MaineCoast
December 19, 2023
"The latest research finds the Gulf Stream has warmed faster than the global ocean over the past two decades, and has shifted toward the #AtlanticCoast.
"Scientists say the ocean current, which carries tropical water up the #EasternSeaboard, has warmed two degrees Fahrenheit since 2001 and could be pushing warmer water into the #GulfOfMaine.
"Robert Todd, an associate scientist with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, said years of data collection confirm what climate models predicted.
"'Long-term ocean observing really is important,' said Todd, 'and we need to keep making those observations so we can understand what’s actually happening in the climate system.'
"Todd said #OceanTemperatures are steadily rising as a result of human activities. He said the findings could determine how changes in the Gulf Stream will impact Maine’s coastal industries.
"The Woods Hole study relied on more than 25,000 ocean temperature and salinity observations collected through the Argo Program — an array of some 4,000 floating robots throughout the global ocean.
"In addition, underwater gliders have slowly navigated the Gulf Stream — revealing warm rings of water, which Todd says could enter the Gulf of Maine and alter marine #environments and species.
"'You can imagine if you have an organism that likes cold water, and suddenly the water is a whole lot warmer because this ring was there,' said Todd, 'those organisms might not be there anymore or might suffer — and then, the fisheries associated with that would suffer.'
"The Gulf of Maine — which stretches from #CapeCod in #Massachusetts to #NovaScotia, #Canada — is already considered one of the fastest-warming ocean regions on the planet.
"Todd said the data collected is shared in real time with scientists around the world."
https://mainebeacon.com/study-confirms-gulf-stream-warming-shifting-toward-maine-coast/
#OceanWarming #ClimateChange #ClimateCatastrophe #Fisheries #MarineEnvironment
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Study confirms #GulfStream warming, shifting toward #MaineCoast
December 19, 2023
"The latest research finds the Gulf Stream has warmed faster than the global ocean over the past two decades, and has shifted toward the #AtlanticCoast.
"Scientists say the ocean current, which carries tropical water up the #EasternSeaboard, has warmed two degrees Fahrenheit since 2001 and could be pushing warmer water into the #GulfOfMaine.
"Robert Todd, an associate scientist with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, said years of data collection confirm what climate models predicted.
"'Long-term ocean observing really is important,' said Todd, 'and we need to keep making those observations so we can understand what’s actually happening in the climate system.'
"Todd said #OceanTemperatures are steadily rising as a result of human activities. He said the findings could determine how changes in the Gulf Stream will impact Maine’s coastal industries.
"The Woods Hole study relied on more than 25,000 ocean temperature and salinity observations collected through the Argo Program — an array of some 4,000 floating robots throughout the global ocean.
"In addition, underwater gliders have slowly navigated the Gulf Stream — revealing warm rings of water, which Todd says could enter the Gulf of Maine and alter marine #environments and species.
"'You can imagine if you have an organism that likes cold water, and suddenly the water is a whole lot warmer because this ring was there,' said Todd, 'those organisms might not be there anymore or might suffer — and then, the fisheries associated with that would suffer.'
"The Gulf of Maine — which stretches from #CapeCod in #Massachusetts to #NovaScotia, #Canada — is already considered one of the fastest-warming ocean regions on the planet.
"Todd said the data collected is shared in real time with scientists around the world."
https://mainebeacon.com/study-confirms-gulf-stream-warming-shifting-toward-maine-coast/
#OceanWarming #ClimateChange #ClimateCatastrophe #Fisheries #MarineEnvironment
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Study confirms #GulfStream warming, shifting toward #MaineCoast
December 19, 2023
"The latest research finds the Gulf Stream has warmed faster than the global ocean over the past two decades, and has shifted toward the #AtlanticCoast.
"Scientists say the ocean current, which carries tropical water up the #EasternSeaboard, has warmed two degrees Fahrenheit since 2001 and could be pushing warmer water into the #GulfOfMaine.
"Robert Todd, an associate scientist with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, said years of data collection confirm what climate models predicted.
"'Long-term ocean observing really is important,' said Todd, 'and we need to keep making those observations so we can understand what’s actually happening in the climate system.'
"Todd said #OceanTemperatures are steadily rising as a result of human activities. He said the findings could determine how changes in the Gulf Stream will impact Maine’s coastal industries.
"The Woods Hole study relied on more than 25,000 ocean temperature and salinity observations collected through the Argo Program — an array of some 4,000 floating robots throughout the global ocean.
"In addition, underwater gliders have slowly navigated the Gulf Stream — revealing warm rings of water, which Todd says could enter the Gulf of Maine and alter marine #environments and species.
"'You can imagine if you have an organism that likes cold water, and suddenly the water is a whole lot warmer because this ring was there,' said Todd, 'those organisms might not be there anymore or might suffer — and then, the fisheries associated with that would suffer.'
"The Gulf of Maine — which stretches from #CapeCod in #Massachusetts to #NovaScotia, #Canada — is already considered one of the fastest-warming ocean regions on the planet.
"Todd said the data collected is shared in real time with scientists around the world."
https://mainebeacon.com/study-confirms-gulf-stream-warming-shifting-toward-maine-coast/
#OceanWarming #ClimateChange #ClimateCatastrophe #Fisheries #MarineEnvironment
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Study confirms #GulfStream warming, shifting toward #MaineCoast
December 19, 2023
"The latest research finds the Gulf Stream has warmed faster than the global ocean over the past two decades, and has shifted toward the #AtlanticCoast.
"Scientists say the ocean current, which carries tropical water up the #EasternSeaboard, has warmed two degrees Fahrenheit since 2001 and could be pushing warmer water into the #GulfOfMaine.
"Robert Todd, an associate scientist with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, said years of data collection confirm what climate models predicted.
"'Long-term ocean observing really is important,' said Todd, 'and we need to keep making those observations so we can understand what’s actually happening in the climate system.'
"Todd said #OceanTemperatures are steadily rising as a result of human activities. He said the findings could determine how changes in the Gulf Stream will impact Maine’s coastal industries.
"The Woods Hole study relied on more than 25,000 ocean temperature and salinity observations collected through the Argo Program — an array of some 4,000 floating robots throughout the global ocean.
"In addition, underwater gliders have slowly navigated the Gulf Stream — revealing warm rings of water, which Todd says could enter the Gulf of Maine and alter marine #environments and species.
"'You can imagine if you have an organism that likes cold water, and suddenly the water is a whole lot warmer because this ring was there,' said Todd, 'those organisms might not be there anymore or might suffer — and then, the fisheries associated with that would suffer.'
"The Gulf of Maine — which stretches from #CapeCod in #Massachusetts to #NovaScotia, #Canada — is already considered one of the fastest-warming ocean regions on the planet.
"Todd said the data collected is shared in real time with scientists around the world."
https://mainebeacon.com/study-confirms-gulf-stream-warming-shifting-toward-maine-coast/
#OceanWarming #ClimateChange #ClimateCatastrophe #Fisheries #MarineEnvironment
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Soooo…. I was #procrasticoding and came up with this little app to put #GulfOfMaine buoy #SST (sea surface #temperature) in context like #ClimateReanalyzer, and I really like how it turned out. https://shiny.umb.edu/shiny/users/jarrett.byrnes/gom_buoy_sst_timeseries_app/
Also a great excuse to try out rerdapp’s tabledap() that I learned from @noaacoastalsci’ #coastwatch workshop. #rstats code repo here https://github.com/jebyrnes/gom_buoy_sst_timeseries_app
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Soooo…. I was #procrasticoding and came up with this little app to put #GulfOfMaine buoy #SST (sea surface #temperature) in context like #ClimateReanalyzer, and I really like how it turned out. https://shiny.umb.edu/shiny/users/jarrett.byrnes/gom_buoy_sst_timeseries_app/
Also a great excuse to try out rerdapp’s tabledap() that I learned from @noaacoastalsci’ #coastwatch workshop. #rstats code repo here https://github.com/jebyrnes/gom_buoy_sst_timeseries_app
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Soooo…. I was #procrasticoding and came up with this little app to put #GulfOfMaine buoy #SST (sea surface #temperature) in context like #ClimateReanalyzer, and I really like how it turned out. https://shiny.umb.edu/shiny/users/jarrett.byrnes/gom_buoy_sst_timeseries_app/
Also a great excuse to try out rerdapp’s tabledap() that I learned from @noaacoastalsci’ #coastwatch workshop. #rstats code repo here https://github.com/jebyrnes/gom_buoy_sst_timeseries_app