The lack of access to reliable, high-speed Internet service in Maine remains a challenge for farmers across the state, preventing them from growing and diversifying their businesses. Lack of access can diminish sales, cause delays in obtaining needed supplies, produce…
The Maine Climate Council was established to advise the Governor and the Legislature on mitigation, adaptation, and resilience strategies that will allow Maine to reduce the impacts of climate change on its residents, communities, industries, and ecosystems. Ellen Stern Griswold, MFT’s Policy…
$484 Billion Relief Bill Good news! Congress has passed and the President is expected to sign a $484 billion relief bill, which includes some important items for Maine farms. The new aid package: Provides $60 billion to replenish the Small…
Maine Farmland Trust and the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) are introducing new Maine Farm Emergency Grants to assist farmers impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. A recent survey conducted by the Beginning Farmer Resource Network of Maine indicates…
Federal Support for Maine Farmers Last week, MFT was pleased to see that Congress passed and the President signed an aid package that includes $9.5 billion for agricultural producers impacted by COVID-19, including producers of specialty crops, producers that supply…
Update 3/27: UPDATE 3/27/20: MFT was very pleased to see that the Senate aid package includes $9.5 billion for agricultural producers impacted by COVID-19, including producers of specialty crops, producers that supply local food systems, and livestock producers. The House…
Maine farmers have long been stewards of the land – soil, water, and natural resources that we all depend upon. As our climate continues to change, our farmers are on the frontlines and need to be prepared to adapt to…
On February 19, over 70 farmers gathered in Presque Isle to learn from peers and experts how healthy soils practices can improve a farm operation. The day-long event included a plenary session with Brendon Rockey of Rockey Farms in Center,…
Last week, MFT and ME DACF co-hosted a webinar on Agricultural Land Reclamation in the 21st Century. The webinar offered guidance and best practices for farmers, landowners, and service providers. Topics included identifying and assessing land suitability for reclamation, environmental…
Farmland and Solar Development Recently-enacted legislation encourages a significant increase in solar development in Maine on an expedited timeline. As a result, solar developers are racing to secure potential sites for solar installations, including on agricultural land near transmission infrastructure.…