Here’s a look at five stories that capture the heart of this year’s work and the steady progress we’re making together for a resilient Casco Bay.
Join Friends of Casco Bay’s Meghan Vigeant on a run around Back Cove
Underground tanks and massive pipes are quietly transforming how Portland protects Casco Bay during big rainstorms. In this video, you’ll follow a run around Back Cove to see how these systems store up to 8 million gallons of stormwater and sewage until the treatment plant can catch up. Along the way, Casco BAYKEEPER® Ivy Frignoca and Portland’s Senior Project Engineer Brad Roland explain why these upgrades matter and how they’re reducing sewage overflows and supporting the resilience of Casco Bay.
How a three-year study met an unexpected crisis and rose to the challenge.
Through our partnership with Bigelow Laboratory, we set out to understand PFAS in Casco Bay, but a major firefighting foam spill in Brunswick turned the study into an expanded all-hands-on-deck effort. This story goes behind the scenes of this study through the eyes of two key team members: Science & Advocacy Associate Heather Kenyon added new sampling sites and hauled buckets through long field days, while Bigelow Research Technician Hannah Sterling adapted lab processes to handle unprecedented PFAS levels. Together, their work tracked the movement of these “forever chemicals” and helped shape state-level PFAS policies that protect Casco Bay.
Volunteer Water Reporters document a changing marine ecosystem.
During extreme low tides this spring, 45 Water Reporters spread out across Casco Bay to document where eelgrass is thriving and where it has disappeared. Their photos and observations are helping scientists understand shifting eelgrass patterns, from losses near Brunswick, Freeport, and East End Beach to hopeful signs like a new bed near Mackworth Island and strong meadows off Cushing and Big Wood Islands. These discoveries guide restoration efforts and deepen our understanding of a vital Bay habitat.
Exploring the legacy of Chief Polin and centuries of river stewardship.
This summer, our Community Engagement Intern Leo Kerz traced the layered story of the Presumpscot River—its early abundance, its centuries of exploitation, and the people who have fought for its health. The story centers on Chief Polin, the river’s first documented advocate, who walked to Boston in 1739 to plead for fish passage after settlers dammed the river. His courage echoes today, as local partners continue the work of restoring the Presumpscot and renewing its connection to Casco Bay.
Twenty emerging artists explore Casco Bay through science and creativity.
The Ocean Currents class at Maine College of Art & Design spent a semester learning about Casco Bay, its history, its pollution challenges, and the changing climate shaping its future. Guided by educator and artist Deb Debiegun, students cleaned up Back Cove, researched environmental issues, and transformed what they learned into original artwork. From crocheted eelgrass to green crab movie posters, their projects revealed the power of art to spark awareness and deepen our connection to the Bay.
We invite everyone who cares about the Casco Bay watershed to become a member. You can join us through volunteering or donating a gift that feels right for you. Larger gifts help us amplify and expand our work even more. Your support enables us to continue addressing the most significant threats to the Bay, including stormwater pollution, PFAS, and climate change.
