We’re so grateful for the many ways you show up for Casco Bay! Whether you’re flexing your muscles to pick up trash, sharing your observations, spreading the word about protecting the Bay, or making a generous donation to support our work, you inspire us every day. Here are 15 photos from 2024 that capture the heart, humor, and hard work of our amazing community:
A Cleaner Bay!
This year, eleven crews volunteered with us to pick up trash in our watershed—including over 3,000 cigarette butts—making the Bay cleaner and safer for marine life. Who knew tidying up could feel this rewarding?
Paddling Adventures
Friends of the Presumpscot River board members hosted our staff as they shared their favorite bends, secret island hideaways, and scenic bridges. Exploring this key river in the Casco Bay watershed created an opportunity for both organizations to connect and share insights about the challenges facing the watershed.
Strolling for Solutions
In June, participants joined Portland’s Stormwater Program Coordinator Doug Roncarati and Casco Baykeeper Ivy Frignoca on a Stormwater Stroll along Portland’s working waterfront. Along the way, they learned how stormwater pollution flows into the Bay and explored the innovative ways Portland Water District is working to protect our waters.
Teamwork for Eelgrass
This summer, we partnered with the Casco Bay Estuary Partnership, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, Manomet, and Team Zostera to monitor threats to eelgrass meadows as part of an exciting restoration pilot project.
Finding Stillness to Better Observe the Bay
At our Summer Mindful Observation event in July, Davinica Nemtzow (second from right) led volunteer Water Reporters in a grounding meditation at Spear Farm Estuary Preserve—a moment of calm by the salt marsh. Being more mindful of our surroundings makes us better stewards of our coastal waters.
Brewing a Clean-Water Community
Employees from Allagash Brewing Company stepped up for the Bay in a big way this year. They organized monthly East End Beach cleanups, nominated us as their Tasting Room Charitable Partner, and volunteered in our Water Reporter program. In April, they gave us a firsthand look at how clean water is key to crafting their award-winning beer.
A Wave of Green
Water Reporter Jamien Jacobs captured this shot of vibrant eelgrass swaying with the tide at Willard Beach in July. Casco Bay has lost more than 50% of this vital habitat since 2018, which is why we are excited about Jamien’s photo of a healthy bed of eelgrass. Nature’s artistry at its finest!
Picture Perfect
Your love for the Bay shone through in the 156 photo submissions to our Frame the Bay Photo Contest. Keep snapping those stunning shots!
Virginia Sambuco captured this haunting image of a seal near Halfway Rock. “Look into my Eyes” took first place in our Wildlife & Animals category for the 2024 Frame the Bay Photo Contest.
Owl-some Discoveries
During our Fall Mindful Observation event at Spear Farm Estuary Preserve, a group of Water Reporters spotted an owl’s nest tucked high in the trees—a magical moment in the woods.
Lights, Camera, Action!
Our fantastic Film Fest for Casco Bay volunteers made this year’s cinematic celebration one to remember. Thank you for bringing the energy!
Intern Power
A big thank you to Community Engagement Intern Julia Littlefield (right), who teamed up with Sara Freshley (left) to lead eight cleanup events, launch our new Water Reporter app, and advance environmental justice using the EPA’s mapping tools.
Science in Action
Kudos to our legal Intern Rachel Fischer who worked hand-in-hand with our advocacy and science teams to uncover why eelgrass is disappearing. She took her findings a step further, translating the science into legal research to help us explore stronger protections for these vital underwater meadows.
Pumpout Hero
A round of applause for Pumpout Coordinator Chris Gilday for keeping poop out of Casco Bay this summer by operating Headmaster, our pumpout vessel that helps boaters in the region comply with our No Discharge Area status.
A Moment of Softness
Community Organizer Sara Freshley took a quiet moment to savor the silky softness of milkweed seeds this fall—a reminder of nature’s simple joys.
A Legacy of Laughter
Casco BAYKEEPERs, past and present—Joe Payne and Ivy Frignoca—shared a laugh at our Members Annual Meeting in July. The event celebrated eelgrass, with attendees donning green as we shared updates on our efforts to study and restore this vital habitat.
As we approach the holidays, we are grateful for all the donors and volunteers who help us improve and protect our beloved Casco Bay.
Thank you for being a Friend!
