Penobscot County SWCD News

USDA Announces 2008 Earth Day Steward Of The Year

2008-05-07T15:37:00.002-04:00

Student from Exeter Elementary School Recognized

"Earth Day Every Day in a Rural Maine Community” was the theme of a poster contest held at the Exeter Elementary School this month. In recognition of Earth Day 2008 (celebrated on April 22) the USDA agencies of the Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Rural Development held the contest to get students thinking about the important role they play in protecting the environment.

Exeter Elementary School’s 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade classes participated in the contest. Approximately 50 students took advantage of the opportunity to show USDA representatives, their teachers, and their classmates what Earth Day in a rural community means to them. USDA officials advised them to think of the little things they do each day, as they add up to a big difference for the environment. As a result, three children were recognized for their Earth Day art. Runner-up winners were Trevor Tibbetts of Mrs. Caron’s 5th grade class, and William Strauch of Mrs. Grant’s 3rd grade class. The First Place prize of an Earth Day 2008 Steward of the Year Award Medal went to Dayle Iverson of Mrs. Jarzabek’s 4th grade class.

Dayle’s picture depicts a rural farm scene including a red barn, a sign near a pond which reads “No Littering,” and a recycle bin. Written at the bottom of the poster are the words “Keep Earth Clean Day Today.” All students will receive Healthy Earth Steward Certificates for their participation in the contest.

On hand to present the first place award were representatives from the sponsoring USDA agencies: Lucia Brown, Farm Loan Officer and Outreach Coordinator for Farm Service Agency; Elaine Tremble, Public Affairs Specialist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service; and Emily Cannon, Public Affairs Specialist for Rural Development. They also served as judges for the contest.

The majority of USDA’s clients are located in rural communities, which was the reason for the emphasis on rural communities. Each USDA agency sponsoring the poster contest has a mission dedicated to preserving and enhancing rural communities.

Watershed Stewards Training Program Will Help Dexter Area Residents

2008-05-07T14:47:00.001-04:00

Dexter, Maine: University of Maine Cooperative Extension, in partnership with the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District, is offering its Watershed Stewards program to residents in the Dexter area who want to keep pollution out of their lakes. The training begins, Tuesday June 3rd and will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 9:00 at the Dexter Community Center. For more information or to register, please call Bessie Wright or Chris Brewer at (207) 990-3676 ext 3 or e-mail at info@penobscotswcd.org. Registration deadline is May 28, 2008.

UMaine Extension’s Watershed Stewards program provides 20 hours of training designed to help local citizens recognize threats to their lakes, and gives them the tools needed to reduce or eliminate those threats. In turn, stewards complete at least 20 hours of service to their watershed, which can include projects such as cataloguing pollution sources and working with state agencies to reduce the impacts of these sources. There is no cost to participate, and all stewards receive a comprehensive resource notebook at no charge.

Extension Assistant Scientist Laura Wilson noted that “the majority of topics we’ll be covering are relevant to any local lake or pond—so if you’re on Sebec, Schoodic or one of the other area lakes, you are welcome to join us!” There are many sources of pollution in this area—commercial sites, logging roads, private roads and residential properties—that threaten the health of this particular watershed. “It is up to us, Maine's citizens, to recognize these sources of pollution and correct these problems,” stressed Wilson.

Pushaw Lake Stewards To Conduct a Watershed Survey

2008-04-10T16:15:00.002-04:00

The Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District is conducting a watershed survey on the Woodland Ave and Lakeside Lane portion of Pushaw Lake to locate sources of phosphorus and sediment which may be having a negative effect on lake water quality. A watershed is the area of land surrounding a lake which drains to the lake via ditches, streams, or rivers. The Surveys will be taking place April 12th and 13th.

The goals of this survey are to locate pollution sources, make technical recommendations to reduce or eliminate them, work with landowners to find reasonable solutions, and ultimately to protect the water quality of the lake for future generations. We do not intend to use the information gathered in the survey for enforcement purposes.

Erosion is the focus of this survey because it is a major source of phosphorus – the most serious pollutant of lakes. Phosphorus and other pollutants reach our lakes through storm water runoff and can come from anywhere in the watershed – not just the shoreline.

Many Maine lakes have shown evidence of water quality declines in the past few decades. Watershed property owners can be directly affected when lake water quality declines. In addition to undesirable aesthetic changes to lake water and the potential impact to the fishery, shorefront property values are lowered and the local tax base declines, resulting in higher taxes for everyone.

We would like permission to survey your property and discuss our findings with you. Please contact us at the number below if you have any questions, ideas that might be helpful to us in the watershed survey, or if you would like to be a part of the project contact: Bessie Wright at 990-3676 ext. 3.

Maine’s Conservation Districts Represented at the Statehouse

2008-04-07T13:58:00.004-04:00

Soil and Water Conservation Districts from Maine recently participated in a Conservation District Day at the Statehouse Hall of Flags in Augusta. Numerous Maine State legislators, pleased to be taking a break from lengthy budget debates, stopped into the Hall of Flags to visit with District staff and discuss local conservation issues.

Representatives from Southern Maine, for instance, were interested in what can be done to limit “sprawl”. An Augusta area member of the Appropriations Committee was particularly glad to discuss water quality with a District staff person who is an expert on the region’s lake water quality and also on bass fishing. The House Chair of the Natural Resources Committee, from Bar Harbor, enlisted District interest in his efforts to reduce the wasteful use of plastics.

The Districts, in turn, appreciated the opportunity to outline the conservation technical assistance and education which they provide to landowners, businesses, schools and municipalities. There are sixteen conservation districts statewide that are “making conservation work for you.” For more information on district programs visit www.penobscotswcd.org.

Conservation District to Meet With Lincoln Residents to Discuss Lake Water Quality

2008-03-18T11:07:00.002-04:00

Did you know that Lincoln has 13 lakes? Did you know that those lakes are at risk?

You have the power to protect these lakes for years to come – the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District and University of Maine Cooperative Extension can help – but only if you're interested.

Come learn what threatens these resources, and how YOU are the only ones who can protect them for generations to come...

Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District and the University of Maine Cooperative Extension will be hosting an Informational Meeting at the Mattanawcook Academy Lecture Hall on March 27 at 6 PM. The meeting will discuss non-point source pollution and what it can mean for Lincoln’s lakes. Erosion is Maine’s biggest threat to water quality; sediments will cloud the water and phosphorus riding on sediments will choke lakes with algae and weeds. Affected lakes attract fewer swimmers, boaters… even anglers as the lakes will support fewer and smaller fish. Poor water quality really hits home (or camp) when shorefront owners find that their property values have dropped. Join Penobscot SWCD and U Maine Cooperative Extension to discuss your concerns and what can be done for Lincoln’s 13 lakes.

Dan Schmidt Receives National Award

2008-03-10T11:38:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to Dan Schmidt, District Conservationist for receiving the 2007 National Individual Civil Rights Award for his outstanding outreach efforts and assistance provided to the Penobscot Indian Nation (PIN). The award was presented to him at the NRCS National Full Leadership Team Meeting held in Reno, Nevada on February 14th.

Dan meets annually with the Nation's Department of Natural Resources to review NRCS program opportunites and determine priority work on approximately 130,000 acres of land owned and managed by the Tribe. He has successfully incorporated the Tribe's Natural resource objectives, which include timber production, hunting and food gathering and the collection of medicinal plants, into conservation plans.

Since 1997 the Tribe has actively participated in the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). To date, 11 EQIP contracts have been approved for $957.545. Seven of the contracts have been completed. The Tribe has also participated in one WHIP contract ($18,75) to enhance wildlife habitat associated with forest harvest activities. In Fiscal Year 2007 alone, Dan's outreach efforts resulted in three new EQIP contracts for approximately $111,000. These contracts will help the Tribe manage over 30,000 acres of forest land. Additionally, more that $180,000 was paid out for practice implementation. These dollars assisted the Tribe to improve forest management, reduce erosion and sedimentation, improve wildlife habitat and restore fish passage for native brook trout.

Dan's outreach efforts have also resulted in the participation of the Department on the Penobscot County Soil & Water Conservation District Board. A Department Employee holds the position of Treasurer. In 2007 Dan hosted a tour for the National and State Civil Rights Committees highlighting conservation work accomplished by the Penobscot Indian Nation.

Conservation District to Meet With Lincoln Residents to Discuss Lake Water Quality

2008-03-10T10:33:00.000-04:00

Did you know that Lincoln has 13 lakes? Did you know that those lakes are at risk?

You have the power to protect these lakes for years to come – the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District and University of Maine Cooperative Extension can help – but only if you're interested.

Come learn what threatens these resources, and how YOU are the only ones who can protect them for generations to come...

Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District and the University of Maine Cooperative Extension will be hosting an Informational Meeting at the Mattanawcook Academy Lecture Hall on March 20 at 6 PM. The meeting will discuss non-point source pollution and what it can mean for Lincoln’s lakes. Erosion is Maine’s biggest threat to water quality; sediments will cloud the water and phosphorus riding on sediments will choke lakes with algae and weeds. Affected lakes attract fewer swimmers, boaters… even anglers as the lakes will support fewer and smaller fish. Poor water quality really hits home (or camp) when shorefront owners find that their property values have dropped. Join Penobscot SWCD and U Maine Cooperative Extension to discuss your concerns and what can be done for Lincoln’s 13 lakes.

Do Your Part for Earth Day 2008

2008-03-07T13:24:00.002-05:00

Conservation and sustainability have been getting a lot of attention in the news lately. People are being constantly warned of new threats from global climate change and the growing need to live more sustainably. With the heated discussions surrounding hybrids; biofuels; wind power and the like, it can be easy to forget there cheaper and simpler ways to make your life a little greener.

Fortunately this Earth Week Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District will be offering 3 ways to do just that:

Recycled Rain Barrel: The Sky Juice recycled rain barrel is 60 gallons with an easily removable intake cover to keep out debris and mosquitoes. It also has a maneuverable overflow that can be directed to any desired location and the 4 available colors inhibit algae growth. By collecting and using the roof stormwater for your yard and garden you can save up to 1,300 gallons of tap or well water. Rain Barrel orders are due by March 28th.

Compost Bin: Turn your kitchen scraps and yard clippings into rich garden soil. The Earth Machine compost bin is also composed of recycled plastic and has an easy snap-together assembly. At 33”x35”x35” the bin has an 80 gallon capacity and comes with an instruction manual and a 10 year warranty. Compost Bin orders are due by April 1st.

Shrub Sale: Plants act as the all-in-one improvement systems for the environment. They increase air and water quality by capturing and processing pollutants and improve soil by aerating it and adding organic matter. Every year the Penobscot County SWCD offers a wide variety of vegetation from fruit/berry producers and ornamentals to perennials and native trees. This year we’re offering 8 pre-designed packages for busy individuals who still want a beautiful landscape. Shrub Sale orders are due by March 21st.

To coincide with Earth Day which falls on April 22nd all of these items will be available at the end of Earth Week on April 26, 2008. For more information about our Earth Week opportunities please visit www.penobscotswcd.org or call 990-3676 ext. 3.

The Penobscot SWCD Honors the Penobscot Indian Nation's Department of Natural Resources with the 2007 Conservation Award

2008-02-15T09:25:00.002-05:00

Each year the District Supervisors travel around the county and visit selected farms and landowners to choose one for the District’s conservation award. At the operations we look at conservation practices that have been installed over the years. We speak with the landowners about their operation, their past successes and their future plans to protect natural resources.This year the Supervisors recognized the Penobscot Indian Nation’s Department of Natural Resources. Through the District’s partnership with the USDA – Natural Resources Conservation Service, the agencies have been working together since 1997 when the USDA Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) were introduced.

The Department’s mission is to “manage, develop and protect the Penobscot Nation’s natural resources in a sustainable manner that protects the cultural integrity of the tribe.” The Department of Natural Resources is a collective division of programs. The programs the District works with include Forestry, Water Quality and Wildlife. The other program areas are Air Quality, Conservation Law and Enforcement, Fisheries, and GIS Mapping.

There are four natural resource areas that the District and the Nation have in common. They are wildlife, water resources, fisheries and forestry. To that end the Department is charged with addressing these concerns on over 128,000 acres of land scattered over 4 counties in central Maine

Over that past 11 years the Department has received 10 EQIP contracts and 2 WHIP contracts. In total over $800,000 has been obligated for conservation practice implementation cost-share on tribal lands.

Identified resource concerns have been treated on tribal lands in Mattamiscontis, Alton, Lakeville, Argyle, Mattagammon and Grindstone. Access roads are essential on these properties for the Penobscot Nation’s sustainable forestry program, access for wildlife management and enjoyment and recreation. Many practices were installed to stabilize these access roads, and reduce erosion and siltation, to water bodies and lessening any impact of concentrated runoff. Many timber bridges were designed and constructed, culverts were installed and miles of road ditching and road banks were improved and stabilized.

While forestry revenue is important to the tribe this goal is superseded by the directive to create top quality wildlife habitat. Because of this importance the Forestry and Wildlife programs work closely to ensure that forested areas ensure healthy deer and moose populations. An example of the divisions working together is the creation of a 30 acre habitat in Alton, which will result in young hardwood regeneration which creates excellent habit for deer, moose and other upland wildlife.

Other wildlife management improvements included a major project. Theconstruction of a water control structure and fish passage on the Sam Ayers Deadwater in Mattamiscontis. As a result of age and vandalism the original dam failed and drained a 50-acre reservoir that was excellent habitat for waterfowl, wading birds and moose. In addition, the loss of water volume and depth in the reservoir greatly reduced the quality of the trout habitat. To restore this tribal and ecological area the tribe installed a new dam, which included a fish passage and beaver deceiver, which prevents beaver from plugging the passage. Restoration of this wetland has shown a great benefit in a wide array of wetland species.Another wildlife practice that was installed was wood duck nesting boxes on the Penobscot River. In total over 100 boxes were installed to improve and increase the amount of nesting waterfowl. The boxes were made from large cedar trees that developed heart rot. It was easy to cut them into two-foot logs and hollow them out with a chain saw. With the addition of a roof, floor and entry hole, these boxes created a natural habit for the ducks rather than ones created from dimensional lumber. Data collected from previous breeding seasons indicated a larger number of nesting ducks choosing the natural cedar duck box.

All of these conservation practices are an integral part of the management system that the Department needs to manage wildlife areas, implement timber stand improvement, timber harvesting, and provide access for hunting and recreation.

Penobscot County Soil & Water Conservation District Renews Cooperative Working Agreement With State and Federal Agencies

2008-01-09T09:14:00.000-05:00

Bangor, Maine – January 9, 2008 – John Simon, Supervisor of the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), Seth Bradstreet III, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources, and Joyce Swartzendruber, State Conservationist of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, formally signed a Cooperative Working Agreement at the Maine Association of Conservation Districts’ Annual Meeting in Bangor recently. The purpose of the agreement is to supplement the Mutual Agreement between the USDA, the State of Maine, and the Penobscot County SWCD, and document those areas of common interest in natural resources conservation. The customers of the parties served are individual landowners, land users, Federal and State land management agencies, individuals, groups and other units of government.

Historically, the three-aforementioned parties have a longstanding partnership. Sharing common commitments to provide leadership in resource conservation, they work together to develop and maintain collaborative relationships by several methods. Surveying customer needs, determining natural resource priorities, and planning strategies to address those issues are a few of the shared commitments outlined in the formal agreement.

In addition, the parties will encourage a watershed approach to natural resource planning by coordinating with public and private resource groups, agencies and interested parties to share natural resource information and other resources in developing these plans. The Natural Resources Conservation Service seeks input for its program delivery through the State Technical Committee as well as Local Work Groups. Penobscot County SWCD periodically convenes locally-led conservation meetings to seek input from constituents regarding natural resource issues, priorities, and potential remedies.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service is the primary Federal agency that works with private landowners to help them protect their natural resources. They provide products and services, financial and technical, that enable people to be good stewards of the Nation’s soil, water, and related natural resources on non-Federal lands.

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources is the State’s lead agency dealing with all aspects of the food system from the field to the table. The Department fosters opportunities for the agriculture community and promotes stewardship of Maine’s natural resources.

Soil and Water Conservation Districts are subdivisions of state government run by locally elected and appointed volunteers who work to solve local natural resource problems. Working in a unique cooperative partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and state and local partners, Soil and Water Conservation Districts reach out to all local stakeholders in the community to determine priorities and set a course of action to solve natural resource problems.

Maine Conservation Districts Hold Annual Meeting

2007-12-17T09:48:00.001-05:00

The Maine Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) recently convened for its Annual Winter Meeting and Auction at the Black Bear Inn in Orono, and raised over $3,500 this year for natural resource education for children. This is the most ever raised at the auction thanks to the generosity of our Maine citizens who donated merchandise, handmade gifts and other unique items. In attendance at the meeting and auction were the 16 conservation districts that serve as the bridge between the citizens of Maine and local, state and federal agencies. They provide conservation leadership, teach the value of natural resources, and help plan and implement voluntary programs to prevent and solve local environmental problems. They work with many partners to provide assistance to the public for their use of land, water, wildlife, forest, plants and other resources.

Preparations were made for 2008 statewide natural resource education. One of the important learning opportunities that the conservation districts host each year is called Envirothon, an outdoor, hands-on competition for high school students that promotes collaborative, teambuilding and communication skills with a wide variety of learning styles. As today’s school children are tomorrow’s community leaders, this education helps to preserve our quality of life here in Maine.

Meeting participants had the opportunity to hear from representatives of some of their partners on key topics. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection provided an update on their programs and district partnerships, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service educated the group on Soils, Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials spoke on Storm Water and Erosion Control programs, and Maine Rural Partners spoke on their Harvesting Clean Energy Program. Representative John Piotti of Maine Farmland Trust was the guest speaker at the evening banquet. The conservation districts also had a working session on developing a strategic plan, a long range plan that will give them guidance in protecting Maine’s natural resources.

For more information about donating to the Annual MACD Auction, or about MACD and the programs and services of Maine’s 16 conservation districts, visit www.maineswcds.org. or contact your local soil and water conservation district.

Dexter Lakes Watershed Stewards Agenda Announced

2007-09-17T10:55:00.000-04:00

September 20: Welcome and Introduction to the Watershed Stewards Program, Introduction to NonPoint Pollution and Other Threats to Maine Lakes - Laura Wilson, UMCE
September 27: Planning Tools and Techniques for Towns - LaMarr Cannon, Maine NEMO
October 4: Lakes 101 - Jeff Dennis, Maine DEP
October 11: Status and Trends of the Dexter Lakes - Roy Bouchard, Maine DEP & LakeSmart Solutions for the Common Water Problems on Your Camp Lot - Laura Wilson, UMCE
October 18: Shoreland Zoning and NRPA - Laws that Affect Our Shorefront Area - Jennifer Cayer, Maine DEP & Soil Erosion/Fertility/Testing - John Jemision, UMCE
October 25: Camp Roads Maintenance - Chris Brewer, Penobscot County SWCD & Lakefront Landscapes - Chris Brewer/Bessie Wright, Penobscot County SWCD
November 1: Septic System Care and Maintenance - David Rocque, Maine Department of Agriculture

To register for this free program contact Laura Wilson at the University of Maine Cooperative Extension at 581-2971.

Penobscot County SWCD to Hold Elections for Board of Supervisors

2007-09-13T13:40:00.000-04:00

Persons desiring to run for the office of District Supervisor for the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District should contact the District Office at 1423 Broadway, Suite #2, Bangor ME 04401, telephone (207) 990-3676 to obtain nomination papers. Nomination papers must be received at the District Office no later than October 17, 2007.

Persons wishing to vote (ballots are mailed to cooperators) in the election of District Supervisor must contact the District in order to receive a ballot. Persons who desire to run for office of Supervisor must be a resident registered voter residing within the boundaries of the District All registered voters residing within the boundaries of the District residents are eligible to vote. Additional information may be obtained by contacting the District.

Also, one of our appointed supervisors’ terms ends December 31, 2007. The Board of Supervisors are asked to submit up to three names of interested individuals to the Soil & Water Conservation Commission, now the Department of Agriculture, who then chooses the person who will become the appointed supervisor for the District. If you are interested in becoming an appointed supervisor please call or come in to see the District Office Coordinator at the District office for a copy of the form that needs to be filled out.

UMaine Training Will Help Dexter-Area Residents Clean Up Lakes

2007-09-10T10:47:00.000-04:00

DEXTER, ME—University of Maine Cooperative Extension, in partnership with the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District, is offering its Watershed Stewards program to residents in the Dexter area who want to keep pollution out of their lake. The training begins September 20, and will be held on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 9:00 at the Dexter Community Center. For more information or to register, please call Laura Wilson at 581-2971 (800-870-7270 in Maine) or e-mail at lwilson@umext.maine.edu. Registration deadline is September 17.

UMaine Extension’s Watershed Stewards program provides 20 hours of training designed to help local citizens recognize threats to their lakes, and gives them the tools needed to reduce or eliminate those threats. In turn, stewards complete at least 20 hours of service to their watershed, which can include projects such as cataloguing pollution sources and working with state agencies to reduce the impacts of these sources. There is no cost to participate, and all stewards receive a comprehensive resource notebook at no charge.

Extension Assistant Scientist Laura Wilson noted that “the majority of topics we’ll be covering are relevant to any local lake or pond—so if you’re on Sebec, Schoodic or one of the other area lakes, you are welcome to join us!” There are many sources of pollution in this area—commercial sites, logging roads, private roads and residential properties—that threaten the health of this particular watershed. “It is up to us, Maine's citizens, to recognize these sources of pollution and correct these problems,” stressed Wilson.

2007-03-06T15:37:00.000-05:00

Conservation District Announces Wildlife Tree and Shrub Sale

Maine’s Soil & Water Conservation Districts are an extraordinary resource for Maine communities. In Penobscot County the Penobscot County Soil & Water Conservation District focuses attention on conserving land, water and related resources; we take action and develop programs to solve natural resource problems; we enlist and coordinate help from all public and private sources that can contribute to accomplishing our district’s mission; and we educate the public in the preservation of natural resources.

The Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District is pleased to announce that we are now taking orders for our 2007 Wildlife Tree and Shrub Sale. This year we are offering a wide variety of shade trees, evergreen trees, ground covers, hedges and shrubs. We are also offering fruit trees and shrubs including apple, crabapple, cherry, blueberries, strawberries and raspberries. All orders must be received by March 22, 2007. For more information on the Sale or District Programs contact the District at 990-3676 or visit our website at www.penobscotswcd.org. If you are located outside of Penobscot County go to www.maineswcds.org to find your local District.

The budget for the operation of the Penobscot Conservation District is established locally based on local priorities. Our budget is a blend of grants from state and federal sources, as well as contributions from public and private sources. For the past 50 years, the District has raised money for the operation of the District office and for special needs and projects by selling trees and shrubs for springtime plantings. Trees and shrubs help hold soil and avoid erosion, so the sales effort is completely consistent with districts’ fundamental goals.

2006-11-06T11:57:00.000-05:00

Annual Christmas Wreath Sale to Support Conservation Education in Maine

The Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District a member of the Maine Association of Conservation Districts is now coordinating the Annual Christmas Wreath Sale. The Maine Association of Conservation Districts is the statewide voice of Maine’s 16 local conservation districts. By working with landowners, organizations and government, districts have helped to protect our soil, water, forestry, wildlife and other natural resources for over 60 years. Proceeds from this sale are used to promote conservation education in Maine.

These Christmas wreaths are handmade by Maine Wreath Artisans. They are 22 inches in diameter and decorated with Austrian pine cones, reindeer moss, red berries and a red velvet waterproof bow. The $27 price includes packaging and UPS shipping in the continental United States. Wreaths will ship right from the factory. Orders are due by November 30 and will ship by December 4, 2004.

Please contact the District for more information or to obtain an order form at Penobscot County SWCD, 28 Gilman Plaza, Suite #2, Bangor, ME 04401, telephone (207) 990-3676 or online at www.penobscotswcd.org.

2006-09-25T13:50:00.000-04:00

The Maine Department of Agriculture Seeks Nutrient Management Proposals

These funds may be utilized to facilitate the construction of new, or retrofitting of existing, manure pollution control facilities on Maine farms, or for other projects that mitigate environmental problems involving farm nutrients.

The Maine Department of Agriculture’s Division of Animal Health & Industry announces the availability of grant funds to help farms and farm operations comply with the State’s Nutrient Management Law and to resolve immediate or long-term environmental problems. These funds may be utilized to facilitate the construction of new or retrofitting of existing manure pollution control facilities on Maine farms, or for other projects such as silage leachate management structures, manure or compost storage pads, roof run-off management structures, or for other appropriate construction projects for mitigating environmental problems involving farm nutrients. Any qualifying project started after June 7, 2006 also will be considered for funding.

The total amount of grant money available is approximately $300,000. A Phase II Supplemental grant by itself, or in combination, with other grant money can cover up to 90 percent of the total cost of a project for a maximum of $40,000 per project, whichever is less.

The sign-up period will occur between October 1, 2006 and November 17, 2006. Two informational meetings will be held, the first of which will be held on Tuesday, October 3 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Maine Department of Agriculture, Deering Building, Augusta, Maine, Room 319, and the second of which will be held on Wednesday, October 4, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Office Building, 967 Illinois Avenue, Bangor, Maine.

Original, NOT FAXED, applications must be received by 2:00 p.m. on November 17, 2006; there will be absolutely no exceptions to this deadline. The applications should be sent to: Division of Purchases, Burton M. Cross Bldg., 4th Floor, 111 Sewall Street, 9 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0009. The Department will notify successful applicants in January 2007. Please direct questions or requests for applications to Mark F. Hedrich, Nutrient Management Coordinator, Maine Department of Agriculture, 28 SHS, Augusta, Maine 04333-0028, phone (207) 287-7608, or email:mailto:mark.hedrich@maine.gov.

2006-09-07T10:57:00.000-04:00

Penobscot County SWCD to Hold Elections for Board of Supervisors

Persons desiring to run for the office of District Supervisor for the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District should contact the District Office at 28 Gilman Plaza, Suite #2, Bangor, ME 04401, telephone (207) 990-3676 to obtain nomination papers. Nomination papers must be received at the District Office no later than October 13, 2006. Persons wishing to vote (ballots are mailed to cooperators) in the election of District Supervisor must contact the District in order to receive a ballot.

Persons who desire to run for office of Supervisor must be a resident registered voter residing within the boundaries of the District All registered voters residing within the boundaries of the District residents are eligible to vote. Additional information may be obtained by contacting the District.

Also, one of our appointed supervisors’ terms ends December 31, 2006. The Board of Supervisors are asked to submit up to three names of interested individuals to the Soil & Water Conservation Commission, now the Department of Agriculture, who then chooses the person who will become the appointed supervisor for the District. If you are interested in becoming an appointed supervisor please call or come in to see the District Office Coordinator at the District office for a copy of the form that needs to be filled out.

Maine Department of Agriculture Announces Cost-Share Program for Irrigation

2006-08-09T16:16:00.000-04:00

Agricultural WATER SOURCE DEVELOPMENT
Cost Share Program
Request For Proposals

Authority: The Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources, pursuant to Private and Special Law PL 2005, Chapter 462, established a cost share program for development of environmentally sound water sources to help avoid drought damage to agricultural crops in Maine.

Eligibility: Any Maine farm business, large or small, that needs to develop environmentally sound water sources to irrigate crops and minimize drought damage is eligible to apply to the program. A farm business is a business that buys and sells agricultural crops and livestock, with a minimum of over $5,000 in gross receipts in any one year. Groups of farmers who will be sourcing water from the same constructed source may apply separately. Only one project per farm will be eligible for funding. If the dollar value of all grants received exceed the funds available, priority will be given to applicants who have not received a grant in the past through this program.

Program Benefits and Use of Funds: The program will provide up to 75% of the cost of construction of a new or expanded water source or up to $80,000 per project, whichever is less.

Where to get applications: Copies of applications and program details can be obtained from: Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources, C/O John Harker, 28 State House Station, Augusta, Maine, 04333 or email John.Harker@maine.gov or call 207-287-7620. The application can also be found on the web for download at www.maine.gov/agriculture/mpd/business/grantsandloans/.

DEADLINE AND SUBMISSION FOR PROPOSALS: 5 copies of the proposal must be sealed in one envelope and clearly marked with the bidder's return address and the notation: "Proposal: Agricultural Water Source Development Cost Share Grant Program" and delivered to the Division of Purchases, Burton M. Cross Building - 4th Floor, 111 Sewall Street, 9 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0009 no later than 2:00 p.m. local time on Thursday, September 14th, 2006 at which time and place they will be opened. Please note that only proposals actually received and date stamped at the Division of Purchases at, or prior to, the stated time will be considered; bidders submitting proposals by mail are responsible for allowing adequate time for delivery. Proposals received after the 2:00 p.m. deadline will be rejected, without exception.

2006-08-07T09:59:00.000-04:00

Conservation District Announces Fall Bulb Sale

The Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District is pleased to announce that we are now taking orders for our 2006 Fall Bulb Sale. This fall we will be offering tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, iris, lilies and much more. All orders must be received by September 1, 2006. The Penobscot County SWCD is a nonprofit organization. Funds from this sale will be used to promote conservation and the wise use of soil, water and other natural resources. For more information on the Bulb Sale or District Programs contact the District at 990-3676 or visit our website at www.penobscotswcd.org. You may write the District at 28 Gilman Plaza, Suite #2, Bangor, ME 04401.

2006-07-13T09:21:00.000-04:00

Pushaw Cleanup Grant Funds Lakeside Landing Improvements

ORONO, ME—The eroding shore of Glenburn’s Lakeside Landing has been stabilized as part of a $98,000 grant from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to address pollution in Pushaw Lake. The grant was awarded to Pushaw Partners—a group comprising University of Maine Cooperative Extension, the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District, the Greater Pushaw Lake Association, and local residents.

With funding from the grant and labor provided through a UMaine Extension lake education and action project, the group planted a vegetated buffer along the Lakeside Landing shore. In addition to preventing soil erosion, vegetated buffers provide filtering and percolation for runoff, and are designed to capture nutrients such as phosphorous for use by land vegetation rather than by lake algae. The Lakeside Landing buffer was designed by a UMaine Extension Master Gardener, and the installation was coordinated by Grace Nelson, Watershed Coordinator at the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District, and Extension AmeriCorps volunteer Katy Green.

Pushaw Lake, encompassing 4,680 acres and bordering four towns—Glenburn, Hudson, Old Town, and Orono—is a major natural, recreational, and economic resource in the greater Bangor area. However, area residents risk loving Pushaw to death. Fertilizers from carefully manicured lakefront lawns wash directly into the lake. Oil and grease from motor vehicles are washed in from paved roads and driveways. Exposed soil on roads and driveways, along ditches, in new construction, and along eroding shorelines carries phosphorus and other algae-stimulating nutrients into the water.

Watershed monitoring has revealed increasing levels of these nutrients in Pushaw over the past ten years. “In fact, if it weren't for the natural brown color of Pushaw, the levels of phosphorus in the lake would probably be high enough to stimulate an algae bloom,” remarked Extension Assistant Scientist Laura Wilson. Such choking aquatic vegetation disrupts lake ecosystems, decreases the recreational value of the lake, and causes oxygen depletion that can lead to fish kills.

The good news is that the trend is reversible. The grant awarded to Pushaw Partners will help stabilize the phosphorus levels in the lake through projects that will include restoration of erosion-prone roads, technical assistance for landowners with erosion problems, and construction of vegetated buffers on private and public property.

The grant award was the result of years of research and hard work. In 2001, twenty area residents who participated in UMaine Extension’s Watershed Stewards Program joined with the Greater Pushaw Lake Association to improve the water quality of their lake. These dedicated volunteers, with help from UMaine Extension and the Penobscot County Soil and Water Conservation District, found hundreds of sites within Pushaw’s 75-square mile watershed contributing pollution to the lake. Collection of this data, along with expertise from UMaine Extension, was vital to the success of the grant proposal.

Access to the beach remains a primary use of Lakeside Landing, and has been maintained. The vegetated buffer will reduce the phosphorus input from the park, and serve as an attractive landscape for many years.