Maine Calling

Journalist and author Mark Kurlansky’s latest book explores the significance of salmon as a species worldwide, and as an indicator of the health of our planet. Kurlansky traveled to multiple countries to study the history of man’s relationship with salmon, and how human interference has threatened this species to the point that it is almost beyond saving. We will learn why salmon’s future survival is so closely linked to the health of the global environment in the face of climate change—and how

Maine is a wonderland in the wintertime, with all the snowy-day activities, from skiing to snowshoeing. And, of course, summertime is when Maine really shines. But what about the less-loved mud season? Our panelists suggest ways to enjoy springtime in Maine even when it's not at its most glorious, weatherwise. We'll get ideas for indoor and outdoor activities, destinations, events and more.

Maine Behavioral Healthcare has announced that a new $14.7 million autism center will open in the Portland-Westbrook area next year, providing outpatient services for not only children, but adults as well. Autism is usually something that is diagnosed in children, so it can be overlooked in adults. Autism was not classified as a mental disorder until 1980, which means that many adults today were not diagnosed with autism as children. We will discuss the signs and characteristics of adult autism,

We discuss some of the top pet issues of the season, including: coronavirus in pets, dealing with ticks and other pests, watching out for rabies, allergies, injuries, diet and more. We'll also learn about a foundation that offers funds for pets in need.

According to the EPA, the average American throws out 4.4 pounds of trash a day. The Zero Waste movement ends to aim that by changing the entire system so that no waste goes to landfills. Zero Waste includes the concept of recycling, but goes beyond it, encouraging a wholesale change in the lifecycle of most products. It includes citizens who aim for a Zero Waste lifestyle, retailers and manufactures who are rethinking how they make and package products, and municipalities rethinking their waste

Our panel of Maine editorial page editors returns to discuss the news that made Maine headlines in February, including the impeachment of Donald Trump and the latest from the state legislature.

You’ve probably seen them – mountain bikes with enormous tires. Now skiing areas are making room for fat bikes, some communities are developing trails for them and there are even winter fat bike races. We’ll learn about this relatively new form of outdoor recreation as well as other ways to keep cycling throughout the winter season. We’ll also discuss the growing popularity of e-bikes and bike safety issues in the news. Video credit: Brian Bechard/Maine Public

The Indian Land Claims Task Force recently presented its report recommending sweeping changes in tribal-state relations, giving the tribes the ability to open casinos, regulate fishing and hunting by non-tribal members and allowing tribal courts to prosecute certain criminal and juvenile offense. The legislature’s judiciary committee has drafted bills based on the report’s recommendations, which are currently under consideration by the legislature.

On March 3, Maine voters will weigh in on the Question 1 ballot referendum, deciding whether or not to overturn LD 798, the bill removing religious and philosophical exemptions from the state’s school vaccination law. Last May, the Maine Senate voted to eliminate those two nonmedical vaccination exemptions for students to attend public or private schools, as well as colleges and day care facilities, and for employees of health care facilities in the state. Gov. Janet Mills then signed the bill

From browntail moth to green crabs, a multitude of invasive species have proliferated in Maine and can be harmful to humans as well as the environment. During this National Invasive Species Awareness Week, we discuss efforts to stem the spread of invasives—from plants to insects—and learn what Maine citizens can do to help. Allison Kanoti , state entomologist, Maine Forest Service Gary Fish , state horticulturalist, Maine Department of Agriculture Nancy Olmstead , invasive plant biologist, Maine