October E-News

Artwork by Ed Nolde, Artist & Sierra Club Maine Volunteer

October 2025

In this issue:

Honoring Joan Saxe
Public Lands Under Attack- Take Action Now!
Hauntings of the North Woods
Introducing: Candidate Forum Conversations 
Climate Fund Municipal Work
Coffee and Climate with Chellie Pingree
Taking Time to Celebrate the Chapter
Allagash Tails: A Lifetime of Stories From the North Woods
Giving Docs: Our Free Estate Planning Tool
The Marjot Foundation Scholarship
Join the Plastic House Challenge
Belfast Climate Resilience Fair
Green Tip of the Month

Photo provided by Joan's Family

Honoring Joan Saxe's Legacy

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Joan Saxe. Joan was the most instrumental figure in the creation of our chapter as it exists today. She was a steadfast and tireless advocate for Maine's environment, and her passing is a profound loss for our organization and the countless wild places she helped protect.

During her 43 years as a member of the Sierra Club, Joan’s passion and dedication were at the heart of our mission. Joan served as both Chair of the New England Chapter and Chair of the Maine Chapter. She served on several national teams, including the National Political Team, the Chapter Chair training team, and the National Board of Directors nominating team. She was a CLF representative, served on the Council of Club Leaders, and was a winner of the Sierra Club National Award program. She served three times as a Sierra Club representative to the UN COP, which makes recommendations and assesses progress towards ending climate change.

Joan worked on many initiatives, including signing the agreement to put two thirds of Sears Island’s 941 acres under conservation protection. She was the co-founder of both the Maine Partners for Cool Communities Project and the Green Sneakers project. She helped to develop Climate Action Teams across the state, was instrumental in preventing Turnpike widening, and developed the legislation for the Clean Air - No Idling campaign. She worked to oppose the CMP New England Clean Energy Corridor, as well as countless other initiatives.

Joan was an avid outdoorswoman. She was a Chapter Outings Leader, twice the leader of the SC National Canoe Trip of the West Branch of the Penobscot River, and a registered Maine Guide. Most recently, Joan was on the national Native American Land Rights team and the New England Canadian Province Alliance team that focuses on the detrimental effects of Mega Dams.

What we remember about her today is her endless energy, her welcoming spirit, and her efforts to lift up and develop aspiring environmental activists. She persevered through thick and thin and was a non-stop advocate for grassroots engagement. Joan’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we carry on the work she loved so dearly—our deepest condolences to Joan’s family, loved ones, and friends. We are forever grateful for their incredible contributions to her enduring spirit.

The Celebration of Life will be held on October 5th at 3pm at Meetinghouse Arts, 20 Main Street, Freeport, ME.

Photo by Sierra Club Creative

Public Lands Under Attack- Take Action Now!

By Matthew Cannon, State Conservation and Energy Director

The Roadless Area Conservation Act (RACA) is a federal bill that would codify the Roadless Rule into law. It's currently in both chambers, and it is coming up for a Senate subcommittee hearing. Though the conservation community organized over 600 thousand comments in three weeks, with over 99% in favor of protecting the rule, we cannot trust this administration to listen to public feedback, and we encourage you to tell our federal delegation to support RACA.

The “Permission to Pollute Act” removes the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority to block dangerous projects, limits the rights of states and tribes to protect their own waters, shields polluters from being held accountable, and opens the door to unchecked pollution. This bill undermines the Clean Water Act and puts polluter profits ahead of reducing water pollution and protecting health and the environment. Tell your U.S. Representatives to vote NO on H.R. 3898 (and share on social media here).
Your Voice Matters: Help Shape the Future of Our National Parks & State Conservation Areas!
National Action
The National Park Service (NPS) has opened a public comment period (deadline is October 9th) and is asking for input on how to improve visitor services so that everyone can have meaningful, enjoyable experiences in our parks.

This is a big opportunity to make our voices heard, particularly for our beloved Acadia National Park. Visitor services touch nearly every part of the park experience, from how people get around to how they learn about history, culture, and nature. By submitting a comment, you can help shape the future of our shared parks and ensure they remain accessible, sustainable, and welcoming for generations to come. Specifically, we hope you tell the National Park Service to rescind Department of the Interior Order 3431, Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History, which directs agencies to remove educational materials deemed “disparaging.” The Trump administration just removed climate change signs from Acadia. Act today and be one of the thousands of people standing up to protect the future of our parks! Sign on and learn more about making a personal comment here: sc.org/ProtectNPS

State Action
The State of Maine is requesting feedback on its Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) by October 1st (TODAY). Your feedback will help:
Identify gaps in access, equity, and infrastructure
Inform funding decisions and priority projects
Guide long-term strategies to improve recreation for all Mainers
We need to ensure our most beautiful places are protected. Whether you’re an outdoor recreation provider who offers outdoor recreation experiences or a resident who enjoys Maine’s incredible natural spaces, your input is critical to shaping the next five years of outdoor recreation planning and investment in our state. Your responses will directly inform the 2025 Maine SCORP, a plan that helps guide outdoor recreation funding, policy, and development across the state. Take action now, and make your voice heard!
 

Photo by Ashley Nye

Hauntings of The North Woods

By Ashley Nye, Communications Coordinator

New England is renowned for its ability to do Fall better than anywhere else in the world. When it comes to foliage, pumpkins, corn mazes, flannel, and general cozy autumn vibes, nothing can compete. This works out great when your favorite holiday is Halloween. New England has no shortage of creepy, vacant houses with boarded windows and peeling paint, nor of folklore to accompany them. The spirits of witches, mad loggers, scorned lovers, and vengeful innocents roam our rocky coastline from Salem Massachusetts to Bar Harbor Maine, and even up inland to Greenville. Hauntings are known for their run down and claustrophobic settings- our most famous ghosts take up residence in old movie theaters, light houses, ships, and hotels. But what about…. The woods?

Maine isn’t known for its staggering population. Rather, the state is acknowledged for its sprawling interior of dense boreal forest, once mostly owned by logging companies and unseen by all but the most rugged of outdoorsmen. The Sierra Club has played a vital role in preserving swaths of these abandoned forests, and in 2006 was designated a key leader in the creation of the 100-mile-wilderness by governor Baldacci. While the Chapter works tirelessly to protect Maine’s remaining wild places- how much do you really know about them?

Just south of Augusta, along the Kennebec river, Randolph is a small town with a fantastic rail trail. Built by volunteers over a former train track primarily used for hospital transport, the site has become an epicenter of paranormal reports. “Bicycle Larry,” a 55 year old biker who disappeared without a trace in 2004 is a prominent appearance in the stories, but other accounts report glowing orbs, disembodied screams, and rituals performed in the dead of night. Randolph Forest is now said by some to be among the most haunted woods in the world, up there with Germany's Black Forest and Hoia-Baciu in Transylvania.

Catherine has been lingering near the mountain named after her since 1860. Near Franklin in Hancock county, route 182 near Mount Catherine is the site of many reported sightings of her apparition. Said to have perished on her way to honeymoon in Bar Harbor with her beau, Catherine was decapitated in a tragic carriage accident, preventing the young couple from reaching their destination. Drivers along the road report a woman with long black hair and a striking face, thumbing for a ride. Those who stop say she disappears from the back seat, while those who drive on report her appearing uninvited- then crashing.

The Haynesville woods lie east of Baxter State Park, near the Grand Lake on the border of the U.S. and Canada. The air in the trees is stagnant, and often dense with fog. Hikers report cold spots and malfunctioning electronic devices, while drivers tell much eerier tales. This remote patch of woods is subject to harsh winters, and its isolation makes for perilous winter conditions. The subject of Dick Curless’ song “A Tombstone Every Mile” the stretch of highway is notorious for accidents. Many crashes have occurred along route 2A, resulting in roadside folklore. The Bride often appears to travelers soaked head to toe, looking chilled and gaunt. Whether flagging for a ride or desperately searching for her missing spouse, stories say her spirit is trapped reliving the event again every night. The Girls are another common sighting in the forest. Said to have been struck by a semi in the ‘60’s, The Girls are seen walking together along the road, only to disappear moments later. Witnesses claim to be left with a burdensome grief after sighting them, and some even say the spirits reappear on their way home.

Whether you prefer ghost hunting or leaf peeping, October is arguably the best time of year to experience what the Maine Woods have to offer. Spending time outdoors has been proven through countless studies to increase happiness, satisfaction, and relieve stress…. Just keep your eyes sharp- and show kindness to fellow recreationists (who you suspect might be ghosts.)

Photo by Graham Platner for Senate

Introducing: Candidate Forum Conversations
With Special Guest Graham Platner

We’re switching up the time and day this month to accommodate for a very special guest! On Wednesday, October 15th, we’ll kick off our new Candidate Forum with none other than popular 2026 Senate candidate Graham Platner!  Join us from 7:30-8:30pm on Zoom.

Graham Platner is a Marine and U.S. Army veteran, oyster farmer, and serves the town of Sullivan as Harbormaster and Planning Board Chair. Deeply connected to the sea through his line of work, Graham seeks to be a champion of the working waterfront and the hardworking families of Maine. We encourage you to check out his platform beforehand!

Please join us for this exciting opportunity to speak directly to the candidate, and don’t forget to bring your questions!

We will be asking other candidates across political parties to join our Community Conversations from now through the election in the fall of 2026, so please stay tuned…

PLEASE NOTE:  You must be a Sierra Club Maine member to attend this Community Conversation! Memberships begin as low as $15/year.  Please join here or reach out to maine.chapter@sierraclub.org to learn more about how to apply for a complimentary membership.

Please reach out to the Sierra Club Maine Chapter with any questions at maine.chapter@sierraclub.org.

Photo by iStock

Climate Superfund Municipal Work

By Matthew Cannon, State Energy and Conservation Director

The Make Polluters Pay Act was carried over until next year. In the meantime, we’re working with cities and towns to pass municipal resolutions urging the Maine Legislature to hold Big Oil accountable for the damage they’ve caused. Will you join us?

The Make Polluters Pay Act will make Big Oil pay for storm recovery and climate adaptation instead of Maine taxpayers. This bill will impose fines on major polluters operating in the state of Maine. These are fossil fuel companies that emitted over 1 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases between 1995 and 2024. Maine’s Department of Environmental Protection will calculate the emission share for each company, and the funds collected will be invested in climate adaptation efforts, such as upgrading wastewater systems and strengthening our energy grid.

Big Oil caused the climate crisis, and it's time for them to pay for the damage they're causing. Polluters like Exxon, Chevron, and Shell have known for decades that increasing fossil fuel production would lead to more severe storms, floods, and damage. Big Oil raised its drilling platforms to account for sea level rise, spread lies about climate science, and spent billions buying out elected officials. Now they expect us to pay for their mess? Absolutely not.

Interested in getting plugged into the movement? Please email maine.chapter@sierraclub.org if you want to learn more about how to pass a municipal resolution supporting the Make Polluters Pay bill in your hometown.

Photo by Katie Tims

Coffee and Climate with Chellie Pingree

Coffee & Climate: Climate Change in Maine

Maine is already grappling with the effects of a changing climate—from rising sea levels and extreme weather to impacts on our iconic landscapes and way of life. Join the One Climate Future Team and guest speaker, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, U.S. representative for Maine’s 1st congressional district and former State Senator, to discuss climate change and action being taken in the Pine Tree State. Grab a cup of coffee and join us on Friday, October 10th from 9am – 10am!

Register in advance for this meeting: https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/meeting/register/9z34WfcfTeKTiOYY0nocvg  

View recordings of past events here.

This event is hosted by the Portland and South Portland Sustainability Offices.

Photo by Wolfe's Neck Center

Taking Time to Celebrate the Chapter

By Ashley Nye, Communications Coordinator

October 4th is just three days away, but you still have time to register for one of the chapter’s most anticipated events of the year! We’re excited to be hosting our Annual Celebration at the Wolfe’s Neck’s stunning Smith Center for Education and Research. The gorgeous venue boasts both indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, where a reverence for nature is woven into every detail. Explore the campus on a hike guided by Sierra Club outings leader, David von Seggern (meet at 10AM at the Smith Center registration desk), or by way of educational wagon ride (after the formal presentation)! And, make sure to connect with furry and feathered friends at the petting barn.

Centered on family and connection, this event was created with both children and seasoned conservation enthusiasts alike. In addition to activities for everyone’s inner kid, we are excited to hear from keynote speaker Karin Tilberg, an accomplished Maine changemaker in the environmental field. Enjoy a catered buffet lunch, complimentary beer garden from Maine Beer Co, and dessert starting at 11:30AM, followed by the program starting at 12PM sharp. Join your community to learn about and honor the work our members have poured their hearts into. After the program concludes, we encourage guests to experience everything Wolfe’s Neck has to offer, and mingle with fellow Sierrans to the tunes of Elsie Gawler and her trio, Springtide.

Buy your tickets for the Event Here!

We are sincerely grateful to the planning committee and sponsors who made this gathering possible. We recognize their dedication, generosity, and time that has been spent cultivating a truly unique experience for our valued members!

Photo by Tim Caverly

Allagash Tails: A Lifetime of Stories from the North Woods

Lifetime outdoorsman and ranger Tim Caverly of Skowhegan, Maine presents a collection of fourteen self published books across the state in a push to promote both literacy and the wonder of Maine’s natural world. After retiring from the state parks department in 1999, Caverly began the second wind of his career authoring books inspired by his time managing the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, and Penobscot River Corridor. With the support of his wife Susan and their pup Sandi, Tim is now touring New England sharing his stories at schools, libraries, and community events. Caverly’s presentations are accompanied by stunning imagery and music, and feature a virtual canoe trip through the North Woods.

Check out the Allagash Tails Website for more information!

Photo by Canva

Giving Docs: Our Free Estate Planning Tool

Did you know August is Make a Will Month?

If you missed it that’s alright because we did too. Luckily the benefits of estate planning are available year round! If the Maine Chapter made a list of what we want to leave the next generation, it might look something like this:

Healthy communities with clean air and safe drinking water.

A fossil fuel-free economy that supports resilient and diverse ecosystems, stabilizing our changing climate.

The ability for everyone to access and enjoy the outdoors, from a backyard in Portland all the way to Quoddy Head.

We want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to create an estate plan that reflects their wishes, too. That’s why we want to share a free estate planning tool from Sierra Club.

Giving Docs is a simple, secure way to create your will and other important estate planning documents online. It’s free for Sierra Club supporters, and it only takes a few minutes to get started.

If you’re interested in making a big impact on our work without any effect on your budget now, Giving Docs also makes it easy to include a gift to the chapter in your estate plan. The tool is completely free to use no matter what.

Photo by Marjot Foundation

The Marjot Foundation Highlight

The Marjot Foundation funds high school students who want to study environmental issues. Students or teams of students from New England and New York are invited to apply for Marjot Foundation grants of $5000 to complete an environmentally-minded research experiment that they have designed. Marjot scholars are expected to attend a science fair project, and many of our scholars have won state or national awards for their research. For details, please check our website. Applications are due October 15, so apply today!

Photo by Greenpeace

Join the Plastic House Challenge with Greenpeace!

You’ve probably heard by now that plastic pollution is wreaking havoc on the environment and wildlife in diverse ecosystems all over the world. But did you know that plastic is also toxic and has been found to harm human health? Plastics are made with over 16,000 chemicals, with more than 25% of these known to be harmful to human health. That’s why this fall, Greenpeace USA is launching the Plastic House Challenge —a simple survey to raise awareness about the most common sources of plastic in our homes that are entering our bodies and making us sick. 
Our homes are filled with common household items made of plastic, which have been found to release microplastics into the food we eat and the air we breathe. Microplastics have been detected in human brains, blood, feces, lungs, breast milk, placentas, hearts, and stomachs. While the full impact of microplastics on human health is still being studied, we do know that many of the chemicals in plastics are known to be harmful to our health - and the evidence is growing. This is a reckless experiment on human health to which we did not consent.

That’s why we would like to invite you to participate in this challenge, so that together we can elevate the message and sound the alarm to new audiences that plastic is toxic for human health. The Plastic House Challenge will be open throughout September and October, and we will share the findings in the months following. We’d love for you to be a part of this initiative with us!

You're Invited! Check Out the Belfast Climate Resilience Fair on October 4th

You're Invited! Check Out the Belfast Climate Resilience Fair on October 4th

Green Tip of the Month
 

Do you have a green tip that you would like to have included in a future newsletter? Please share it with us at maine.chapter@sierraclub.org !