Media interview Beal for reports on Downeast Institute expansion
WABI (Channel 5), News Center Maine and The Ellsworth American interviewed Brian Beal, a professor of marine ecology at the University of Maine at Machias and the director of research at the Downeast Institute, for reports on the construction for a $6.6 million expansion to the institute. “What we do here at DEI is to try to improve the economic wellbeing of communities and individuals,” said Beal. The addition will include a new, modernized shellfish hatchery, several new labs and a residence hall to facilitate learning opportunities for students from colleges and local schools. The updated facilities will enhance research on razor clams, mussels and soft shell clams, and will help local fisheries by allowing them to farm shellfish during the winter. “It’s a world-class facility. It’s a small facility, but it’s nice,” Beal told WABI. “Every student comes here and learns about the ocean, learns about the rocky shore, learns about science, and their own community.” Construction is scheduled for completion in August. Mainebiz also reported on the expansion.