In the wake of increasing storm intensity and climate change concerns, Hog Island Audubon proactively fortified its structures to prepare for sea level rise. The organization applied for and received a ShoreUp grant in 2021 to reinforce the historic Queen Mary building prior to eventually lifting it 3ft higher. When January storms battered the coast, Audubon’s campus suffered significant damage. However, amidst the chaos, the Queen Mary building stood tall and unscathed, a testament to…
Category: Blog
Conversations for Action: Strengthening Community Resilience in the Aftermath of Storms
Posted by Abby Roche & Brenna Cohen, Community Development Officers & filed under Blog.
In the aftermath of three major storm events, one in December and consecutive occurrences in January, conversations across the state are now focusing on planning to enhance community resilience in anticipation of future storms. Residents are now actively seeking information and connections to prepare their communities to weather the anticipated challenges ahead. On January 24,… Read more »
Webinar Recording: Storm Science | Understanding the New Normal
Posted by Renny Sabina & filed under Blog.
On January 30, Island Institute hosted a webinar with Susie Arnold, Ph.D., Co-chair, Science and Technical Subcommittee, Maine Climate Council; Director of Center for Climate and Community, Island Institute, Hannah Baranes, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher, Gulf of Maine Research Institute, Gabe McPhail, Founder, Resilient Communities, L3C, and moderated by Jennifer Seavey, Chief Programs Officer, Island Institute.
Homework without High-speed Internet
Posted by Amber Blum, Associate Community Development Officer & filed under Blog.
Imagine being a math teacher, but only half of your class has access to calculators at home. Or imagine being an English teacher, but only a fraction of your students are able to take the book home. How would you adapt? This isn’t far from reality for many students in Maine who lack internet access at home. As part of Island Institute’s work supporting digital equity planning in Waldo county, my colleague Zuzy and I recently visited Belfast high school, to hear from students and teachers about the impact the digital divide on education.
Reflections on Northeast Aquaculture Conference and Exposition
Posted by Phoebe Walsh, Community Development Officer & filed under Blog.
I had my first day at Island Institute on a Monday, and by Wednesday I was boarding a train to Rhode Island to attend the Northeast Aquaculture Conference and Exposition (NACE). The Amtrak was buzzing with excited chatter between industry acquittances, old friends, and colleagues, excited to connect in person and not at a virtual conference.
Raising a Glass to New Partnerships
Posted by Julia Cole, Philanthropy Advocate & filed under Blog.
We’re thrilled to share the exciting news: Island Institute has been named a nonprofit partner of 1% for the Planet, an honor made possible by a thoughtful nomination from our friends at Maine Beer Company.
Island Journeys after the Storm
Posted by Stephanie Welch, Public Policy Director & filed under Blog.
Three days after back-to-back storms that pummeled Maine’s coast in January, Maine Seacoast Mission welcomed Island Institute to join them aboard the Sunbeam to get a firsthand look at storm damage, connect with island residents and businesses, and lend a hand with clean-up efforts.
January 2024 Storms: Frequently Asked Questions
Posted by Renny Sabina & filed under Blog.
On January 16, 2024, Island Institute hosted a webinar to share information and resources to help community members navigate the devastating impacts of the January 2024 storms. During the webinar, many questions were submitted into the Q&A, and we’re following up here with further information about the most frequently asked questions.
Webinar Recording: Storm Recovery and Resources
Posted by Renny Sabina & filed under Blog.
On January 16, Island Institute hosted a webinar with Maine Department of Marine Resources Commissioner Patrick Keliher and Department of Economic, Community Development Commissioner Heather Johnson, and Maine Emergency Management Agency Director, Mitigation, Planning and Recovery Anne Fuchs.
2024 Storms: Resources for Recovery
Posted by Renny Sabina & filed under Blog.
In the wake of the recent storm, our Island and coastal communities are grappling with the devastating impacts of severe flooding and storm damage. To support the families and businesses through this difficult time, we want to share resources to access the help they need to recover from this storm and prepare for the next.
