Groundwater may be an underutilized resource for irrigation that could benefit the production of crops in Aroostook County. Increasing use of groundwater resources, however, may impact surface-water systems by decreasing base flow that sustains low flow conditions and by altering flow patterns that organisms, such as brook trout, rely on during parts of their life […]
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The single defining challenge to our modern biological resources is one of rapid landscape evolution. To manage these impacts and make informed choices concerning the tradeoffs between biological conservation, economic prosperity, and the Maine way(s) of life, we need to understand what species and communities are most at risk to different disturbances. The proposed project […]
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Drinking water districts are facing challenges with the changing climate. Across Maine, there are more than 40 surface freshwater sources used for drinking water; 10 of these (including Bangor and Portland) are not filtered as part of the treatment process. Increasing lake water temperatures and DOC concentrations will alter biological activity in Maine’s lakes, yet […]
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The underlying biogeochemical processes that support forest ecosystem function and, therefore, the ecosystem services they provide, are not adequately understood. This leads to uncertainties in the sustainability of ecosystem services (e.g., the sustainability of forests with increased use for biomass energy, the continued supply of high-quality freshwater from lakes and streams in a changing climate) […]
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The “quality of place” that defines Maine is represented by a diverse landscape mosaic containing innumerable lakes, rivers, and streams that offer prime outdoor recreational opportunities, provide clean water, and support aquatic biodiversity. Unfortunately, too many of these aquatic resources are either currently degraded or at risk of impairment from human activities. With over 1,000 […]
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There is global evidence of rapid environmental change as the result of climate change and in some cases introduction of invasive species. The environmental changes are often particularly severe to socially, economically, and disadvantaged populations with strong connections to natural resources for cultural, spiritual, economical, and health reasons. This research will bring diverse groups together […]
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Worker health and safety in the forest products industry is important. To date, particulate emissions have not been assessed in the rapidly growing pellet fuel industry. This research will assess particulate emissions that could endanger human health and will result in clear guidelines for state and federal government officials. Additionally, the wood fuel pellet industry […]
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Forests and forest products are critical part of Maine’s economy. Maintaining productive forests in the face of climate change and uncertain future conditions requires an understanding of how forests have responded to past disturbances and stresses, including climate extremes. Establishing the link between past stresses and forest productivity is key to devising management strategies that […]
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Recent advances in computer technology, forest data, and remote sensing have enhanced the ability to make both short- and long-term projections of future forest conditions. These computer-simulation tools allow both researchers and natural resource professionals to evaluate alternative forest-management strategies, test the sensitivity of the system to various factors, and conduct financial assessments. However, these […]
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The desire to understand and anticipate the effects of climate change on ecological communities is a regional, national, and global research priority. The regional effects of climate change have the potential to strongly degrade freshwater ecosystems and the cultural, economic, and social services (e.g., fisheries) they provide the people of Maine. Changes in weather patterns […]
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