Maine’s seafood industry contributes significantly to the state’s economy, and research to support the industry will benefit the state as a whole. Last year, Maine’s catch of American lobster was 47,117 metric tons, valued at over $330 million and contributing 70% of the commercial fishing income in this state. Processing waste can reach 75-80% of […]
Read more
The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major public health problem in the United States. The MetS is characterized by the concurrent presence of obesity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and hypertension, and other associated metabolic abnormalities. Finding economical and effective ways to prevent and reverse the MetS is extremely important for public health and the […]
Read more
A thriving horticulture industry relies upon the assessment and introduction of dependable, attractive plants for the landscape. The introduction of nonnative plants comes with ecological risks, making evaluation and promotion of native plants an attractive alternative. The proposed research will support the ornamental and native plant segments of New England’s horticulture industry by generating practical […]
Read more
Horticulture, including the greenhouse industry, is vibrant and economically important. For example, in 2009, specialty crops were valued at $11.7 billion dollars according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Greenhouses allow specialty crop growers to grow in adverse climates and extend the growing season, which is particularly important in northern areas of the United States. […]
Read more
The agricultural and natural resource sector in Maine faces challenges from an array of natural hazards and financial disturbances. A significant amount of resources have been spent on minimizing such risks. However, for farmers, how to make optimal production decisions facing these risks? How to utilize the available financial instrument to better hedge risks? For […]
Read more
Human dimensions of natural resources have become a recognized component of management that is just as necessary as ecological study. As the state of Maine faces emerging issues such as increased development, growing motorized recreation use, and changes in supply and demand for forest resources, this research fills a critical need. The coupled human-forest interactions […]
Read more
Without transportation systems sufficient to support a growing user population, many recreation areas are experiencing not only diminished resources, but declining visitor satisfaction. Included in the missions of all four federal land management agencies is the directive to manage resources so as to provide enjoyment, while meeting the needs of future generations of Americans. This […]
Read more
The tourism industry is central to the economic development of many rural communities in Maine. Trends suggest the number of visitors in Maine will keep increasing. In 2011, tourism was responsible for generating over 20% of jobs in the state and accounted for an estimated 16% of tax revenue. Global changes—including climatic, societal, technological, and […]
Read more
Tourism generates an array of economic, conservation, health, and societal benefits to residents and nonresidents of Maine. The state’s outstanding tourism assets and the diversity of outdoor recreation opportunities represent important drivers for attracting diverse in-state and out-of-state visitors. These unique natural and cultural tourism assets have ample growth capacity. Challenges to capturing these opportunities […]
Read more
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 […]
Read more