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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Climate change alters ME biodiversity as species' range shifts north

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Monday, June 3, 2024   

Scientists said climate change is having an unprecedented and accelerating effect on the biodiversity of plants and animals in Maine. Rising sea temperatures are altering critical habitats and food webs, as seen in the collapse of Atlantic shrimp stock and loss of kelp beds, which hurts both marine life and Maine's vital fishing industry.

Kristen Puryear, ecologist for the Maine Natural Areas Program, said climate change is compounding existing threats like overdevelopment along the coast, where biodiverse tidal marshes are running out of space.

"Species likely to be vulnerable are those that are already rare on the state or global level, or have narrow or specialized habitat needs," Puryear explained.

Puryear pointed out scientists have the conservation tools to help mitigate the effects of climate change on wildlife, including using strategically connected landscapes and corridors to help species adapt and grow more resilient, even as they seek habitat further north.

Forests make up nearly 90% of Maine's land area, and scientists said they have reached a biological tipping point, growing more vulnerable to wildfires, disease and invasive pests. Species like glossy buckthorn, bittersweet and barberry can crowd out other native plants and become breeding grounds for ticks.

Puryear acknowledged other species will arrive in Maine's hardwood and softwood forests with minimal effects.

"To some degree, allowing these novel species to just move in on their own if they're not causing big upsets to the whole ecosystem may be something that we do have to let go," Puryear emphasized.

State officials said the vast number of trees in Maine offset nearly all the greenhouse gas emissions produced in the state, but emerging threats could change it. Maine's four-year plan to prepare for climate change is being updated by scientists with the Maine Climate Council and should be released later this year.


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In 2023, the Biden administration ordered a Bakersfield oil company to remove old oil rigs from Carrizo Plain National Monument in Central California. (Bob Wick/BLM)

Environment

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Groups that fight to protect public lands are criticizing the Trump administration's new review of all oil, gas and mining on public lands. National …


Environment

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This weekend, Virginians will participate with other birders around the world in the Great Backyard Bird Count. Thousands of birding enthusiasts …

Environment

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This weekend, birders across the world, including in Maryland, will participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count. Thousands of birding enthusiasts …


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Social Issues

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In its next contract, the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Program faculty union is looking for "reasonable" class sizes and for teachers to easily access remote learning tools when needed. (Adobe Stock)

Social Issues

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A New York City music school's faculty is back in the classroom after a weeklong strike. The Manhattan School of Music's Precollege Program faculty …

Social Issues

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A New York bill would require schools to teach about the Jan. 6 insurrection. The bill calls for all K-12 students to be taught about the event…

Health and Wellness

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An Atlanta-based group is making sure more people have access to an unconventional but effective treatment for their moderate mental health challenges…

 

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