How can I afford solar (or any other efficiency upgrade, for that matter)? The real question — can you afford not to? Prices for solar electric systems (PV) have dropped 50% in the past five years and the low prices, combined with the availability of state and federal incentives, make it a great time to…
By Lynne Ascrizzi About 5% of new homes built in this country are modular, according to the 2010 U.S. Census. However, the market share in Maine is much higher than the national average, as it is in other states with colder weather climates, according to the Modular Home Builders Association of Maine. Today, the modular…
By Erika Blauch Rusley What better way to enjoy Maine’s diverse array of local foods than with a glass of locally sourced beer, wine, or spirits? BEER Peak Organic Brewery is a leader in local sourcing from the New England region, and many of Peak’s ingredients are exclusively made in Maine. Aurora Mills, in Linneaus,…
Over 100 Maine farmers and landowners are developing 120-plus mw of community wind – that’s enough power for 39,000 homes. Community wind and landowners especially in the farming and forestry communities have a natural connection. This showcases Maine farmers’ ingenuity and leadership in not only providing food for our tables, but also stably-priced, home-grown electricity.…
By Dan Kolbert, Guest Columnist For the past two years, Maine Green Building Supply in Portland has hosted a monthly Building Science discussion group. As the moderator of the group, I try to come up with questions and ideas that will spur a conversation on the topic of the month. One goal that underlies almost…
By Lynn Ascrizzi In only a few decades, “hydroponic” has become a household word. Today, commercially grown hydroponic tomatoes, greens and herbs are sold regularly at farmers’ markets and grocery stores in Maine, and elsewhere. One of the beauties of hydroponics is that the system enables fresh, local crop production, year-round. Scott Howard, owner and…
By David Homa, Guest Columnist On a good year, the home garden can grow from April to October in Maine. But often crops are lost to early fall or late spring frosts. These days, the climate is even more unpredictable with early snows and heavy rains. A great option to consider adding to your garden…
By Molly Gallagher Burk Summer in Maine means lots of time spent playing and lounging on our lush, grassy lawns; but all of that green grass can come with a price. The products we use on our lawns and gardens can run off into our waterways and be absorbed into our air. Lawn chemicals such…
Composting is a natural process that transforms discarded kitchen and yard waste into a nutrient rich soil additive for your garden. It’s easy to get started and you’ll be amazed at how much less waste you produce when you compost your kitchen and yard waste. What’s needed for a healthy compost pile? A healthy compost…
By Carey Kish, Guest Columnist The scenic hills and mountains of southern and coastal Maine offer countless miles and hours of walking enjoyment on trails leading through quiet forests to spectacular vistas. These wonderful paths await your gentle footsteps, your eyes and ears, and the company of friends and family, so grab your daypack and go…