The Maine Journal of Conservation and Sustainability
UMaine Alert
Posted: April 19, 2024 - 1:32 PM
At approximately 9:24 a.m. on Friday, April 19, a University of Maine graduate student was struck by a university vehicle on Long Road at the University of Maine campus in Orono. The student reports that they are at a local hospital with minor injuries.
Emergency services, including the Orono Fire Department, University Volunteer Ambulance Corps, University of Maine Police Department, Orono Police Department and Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.
The university vehicle involved in the incident was a Chevrolet Express van. It was being operated by a university employee.
Counseling services and support are available for students, faculty or staff who may have been affected. The Counseling Center can be reached at 207-581-1392 and the Dean of Students Office can be reached at 207-581-1406.
The scene has been cleared and Long Road is now accessible. An investigation is being conducted by the University of Maine Police Department with assistance from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit. Any witnesses to the incident are encouraged to contact Lt. Noel Santiago at noel.santiago@maine.edu.
The sustainable community in Maine pertains to creating connections and unifying people to the natural world. It’s fairly simple to get lost in the busy lives of our new up and go culture, and staying aware of the environmental elements that are substantially given to us can be quite difficult. Farmers in Maine must be profoundly thorough to make the environment resourceful. Yet concurrently they must work to keep it conserved and protected.
I traveled throughout the local area of Penobscot County to many diverse farms and residential homes. I attempted to capture the residents’ livelihoods to share and spread the fulfillment of backyard agriculture. The farmers and residents showcased their capabilities, driven by their strong passion and love for agriculture. These hardworking folks coexist and understand the hardships of what this career or hobby can bring. They share their successes and appreciate the work of other farmers through events such as Farmer to Farmer Conferences and the Bangor Harvest Festival. Through their lifelong hobbies and careers, these farmers strengthen Maine communities.
Arguably, the best part about documenting agriculture in Maine is learning how the farms help their communities in various ways. I witnessed children, young adults, older adults, and even elders working with the livestock and crops on their land. Some had humble houses on modest plots of land, while others had an abundance of space. No matter the size or the quantity of animals and crops, these hardworking farmers all had the aspiration to help their communities and support sustainable and healthy lifestyles.
A thank you to Souder Station Farm, Foxgreen Farm, Coldstream Icelandic Sheep Farm, the Snyders, Anna JJ, The Village Farm and Garden, Taylor, and Witter Farm. Your actions have helped more people than you know. Your communities thank you.