In the article “Climate Change Throws Forest Industry a Curve,” (May 12), North Cairn summarized the negative impact climate change will have on Maine’s forest products, which is our largest manufacturing industry.

Cairn referred to a report on the effects of climate change on the state that was requested by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection. Climate change poses a major threat not only to Maine’s forest products, but also to our fishing industry. Additionally, Maine’s farmers are feeling the impact of climate change due to altered growing seasons.

Because of increased concern about climate change, the 2009 Legislature requested that the Department of Environmental Protection gather experts from various fields to research the effects of climate change on Maine. This group was comprised of experts from more than 70 groups representing government, business, agriculture, forestry, marine resources, health, conservation, and transportation. Researchers from the University of Maine participated in the discussions.

Because of increased concern about climate change, the 2009 Legislature requested that the Department of Environmental Protection gather experts from various fields to research the effects of climate change on Maine. This group was comprised of experts from more than 70 groups representing government, business, agriculture, forestry, marine resources, health, conservation, and transportation. Researchers from the University of Maine participated in the discussions.

According to its website, “This report considers past change over geologic time, recent evidence of accelerated rates of change, and the implications of continued climate change in Maine during the 21st century as a result of greenhouse gas emissions and their associated pollutants.” Continuing to ignore the effects of climate change will have drastic effects on all regions and societies. The resulting report named “People and Nature Adapting to Climate Change: Charting Maine’s Course” provides suggestions to help municipalities and citizens prepare for the future.

Since this report is not readily available to the public, we have posted a copy of “People and Nature Adapting to Climate Change: Charting Maine’s Course” on the Sustain Mid Maine Coalition’s website www.sustainmidmaine.org.

Melissa Hackett