Research Programs Archives - Page 9 of 11 - Maine Agricultural and Forest Experiment Station

Research Programs

Propagating, cultivating, and evaluating New England’s flora to enhance sustainability of the green industry

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 […]

Resource management in commercial greenhouse production

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. […]

Evaluating risk profile and financial performance of various types of agricultural and natural resource operations in Maine

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 […]

Sustainable human-forest interactions in Maine

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 […]

Monitoring visitor transportation in parks and public land settings-development of indicators and standards for measuring performance

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 […]

Outdoor recreation, parks and other green environments: understanding human and community benefits and mechanisms

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 […]

Understanding drivers and constraints to sustainable tourism destination development

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 […]

Protecting cultural resources with rapid environmental change

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 […]

Large volume applications of cellulose nanomaterials

Maine is traditionally forest products industry oriented. One way to keep the tradition going is to develop new forest products that can be commercialized and compensate for the declining sectors such as paper industry. With more and more mills closing or re-purposed, the public is anxious to learn if the forest industry is still viable. […]

Physical properties, environmental impacts and business aspects of wood and wood-based composite materials

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 […]

« Previous 1 … 7 8 9 10 11 Next »