Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why was the Maine Stream Team Program created?
What is a "stream team"?
What are the goals of the Maine Stream Team Program?
How does the Program work?
What does the Maine Stream Team Program provide?

Why was the Maine Stream Team Program created?

One of the most important natural resources that Maine posseses is its over 33,000 miles of rivers and streams. When Maine first began to be settled in the 1600s the rivers were an important natural resource for the settlers as they were for the Native Americans. They were pristine and abundant with salmon, alewives, sturgeon, and other fish. A primary means of livlihood for the settlers was farming. Later lumbering became important and along with this came sawmills and dams located on rivers and streams as they provided a means of generating power. In the 1800s industries such as tanneries and textile mills began and later pulp and paper mills. Rivers were heavily impacted by industry due to both the impacts of dams and the discharge of waste into them. Severe impacts continued until the 1970s when the Clean Water Act was passed.

Since then great strides have been made in cleaning up Maine's rivers. Problems remain however and a growing concern is the effects of land use, particularly urbanization and sprawl, as watersheds become more developed. Recognition and greater emphasis is also being placed on protecting small streams since they are ecologically important towards protecting the health of the much larger watershed ecosystems.

Because streams and rivers are such a vast resource, effective protection and restoration efforts require a network of agencies, organizations and individuals. A true "team" effort is needed-one that combines the resources, talents and concerns of all who care about the waters of this state. The Maine Stream Team Program (MSTP) has been established to facilitate these working partnerships and provide assistance to teams. (Back to top)

What is a "stream team"?

A stream team is a group of people who are working together on protecting their local stream. Stream teams range from a small group of concerned landowners, to school groups to established river organizations. Examples of stream teams include Hope Middle School 8th grade class, Saco Middle School Ecology Club, Androscoggin River Watershed Council, the Narraguagus River Watershed Council and the Penjajawoc/Meadow Brook Stream Team (group of concerned citizens). (Back to top)

What are the goals of the Maine Stream Team Program?

NETWORKING: The MSTP will act as a focal point for citizens interested in the conservation of Maine's streams. Using tools such as an Internet website, a newsletter, and a MSTP contact person; the program will link groups with similar goals, promote cooperative efforts and provide a strong voice for streams in Maine.

EDUCATION: Efforts to solve stream problems must be grounded upon a basic understanding of stream ecology. The MSTP will provide information to better appreciate, understand and preserve stream systems. Training courses will also be offered.

STEWARDSHIP: "Hands-on" projects help solve specific problems, but they also help people understand how streams work. The efforts of individual stewardship projects of one citizen may seem small, but the sum of citizen efforts around the State may make a significant contribution towards the protection of Maine's stream ecosystems. The MSTP can provide advice when you are planning a project. Examples of stewardship projects include: learning about streams, performing stream habitat surveys, doing stream "clean-ups", planting streamside trees and monitoring water quality. List of project ideas that a stream team might consider. (Back to top)

How does the Program work?

Membership is free to any interested citizen, family or organization. To form a "stream team", print out the form found at the registration section on the website and complete the form by listing your group, the team "name", a contact person, team members and the name of your chosen stream. After you have completed the registration form, drop it in the mail. You also may complete the form online. Once you have a "team" and a stream, you are set. You establish the course of events in protecting your stream. We will help you with ideas, advice, and informational packets, but only your team has the power to get things done. (Back to top)

What does the Maine Stream Team provide?

The program is directed by Jeff Varricchione in the Portland Regional office with assistance from an Americorps staff person. Staff in the Augusta and Bangor regional offices also provide support to the program allowing for greater geographic outreach.

The Maine Stream Team Program has developed tools that help your Stream Team accomplish its goals. These tools include items such as a membership database (to facilitate networking), a collection of information resources (brochures, videos, books), advice (via the website, telephone, or email), an internet website, a newsletter, and training publications and workshops for various stream stewardship activities. Formal training is available to groups on Stream Habitat Walks. We can also provide groups with assistance on water quality monitoring. These tools will continually evolve to serve your team better.

The Stream Team Program also holds an annual information and education event known as the Maine Stream Summit, or the MESS, typically in either March or April. The purpose of the summit is to provide an opportunity for teams to present their work, learn about current river and stream issues, and attend workshops on a variety of stream related issues. (Back to top)