Rime Farm: Organic Farming in Downeast Maine's Changing Climate

Here, we’ll share curated news about Maine, farming, climate change, sustainability and innovation. Meet the academics and groups who are working behind the scenes to address the challenges of climate change head on. And, discuss with us how small family farms may hold the key to carbon sequestration, food security and soil health.

Climate Change Threatens Maine’s Farms

Farming with Climate Change in Mind

Climate Change Focused Groups and Organizations

In Maine and beyond, several organizations focus on climate change, sustainable agriculture, and supporting farms with an emphasis on organic practices. Here’s a list highlighting some key organizations within Maine and on a broader scale, dedicated to these important issues. Each organization has its unique focus, ranging from policy advocacy and research to practical support for farmers and the promotion of sustainable, organic agriculture.

Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA): MOFGA is the oldest and largest state organic organization in the United States, offering extensive resources for organic farmers, including certification, educational events, and advocacy for sustainable agriculture.

Maine Farmland Trust: Focused on protecting Maine’s farmland and supporting farmers, Maine Farmland Trust works to ensure the future of agriculture in the state through land conservation, farm support programs, and promoting local food systems.

Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI): While not exclusively focused on agriculture, CEI supports sustainable development in Maine, including farm and food businesses, through financing and business advisory services.

Island Institute: Working with Maine’s island and coastal communities, the Island Institute addresses climate change impacts and supports sustainable development, including local agriculture and seafood industries.

National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC): NSAC advocates for federal policy reform to advance the sustainability of agriculture, food systems, natural resources, and rural communities.

Regeneration International: Focused on promoting regenerative agriculture practices globally, Regeneration International aims to mitigate climate change, rebuild soil health, and improve food security.

Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF): OFRF works to foster the improvement and widespread adoption of organic farming systems, conducting research and providing education and grant support for organic farmers.

Rodale Institute: A pioneer in organic farming research, Rodale Institute conducts research on organic agriculture, advocates for policies supporting organic farmers, and provides training for farmers transitioning to organic methods.

Climate Reality Project: Founded by Al Gore, the Climate Reality Project focuses on climate change education and advocacy. While not exclusively agricultural, its initiatives often intersect with farming and food systems.

350.org: An international environmental organization, 350.org focuses on climate change advocacy with campaigns that occasionally touch on agriculture as part of broader climate solutions.

These organizations represent just a slice of the many groups working tirelessly to address climate change, promote sustainable and organic agriculture, and support farmers in Maine and beyond. Their efforts range from on-the-ground support for farmers to policy advocacy and research aimed at transforming our food systems for the better.