Training - Calendar of Events

Shoreline Stabilization Practices using OUR SHORE

Date: June 11, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Damariscotta, Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust's Round Top Farm in the David Moses Bridge Education Hall, 3 Round Top Ln, Damariscotta, ME 04543

Contact: Louisa Crane (207) 596-2040

More information

Soil erosion is not only a source of nonpoint source pollution, but it can also threaten structures and other development. Historically, there was a single approach to shoreline erosion: fill the shoreline with rock or riprap without regard to the ecological functions of the shoreline. While this approach has been successful in solving some erosion challenges when done correctly, it creates other problems for waterbodies and wildlife. This training introduces participants to resources and alternative approaches to protecting water quality and habitat to create resilient and stable shorelines. There are many common issues along shorelines that lead to erosion and instability. Sometimes, it takes several techniques to address the compounded problems resulting from poorly-sited development and land use. Criteria for choosing appropriate shoreland BMPs or bioengineering solutions include practices that cause minimal disturbance while providing maximum benefit. A combination of several techniques can often be used to ensure that the best practices chosen are suited to the specific site.

Shoreline Stabilization Practices using OUR SHORE

Date: June 25, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Windham, Cumberland County Soil & Water District, 35 Main Street, Windham, ME 04062

Contact: Abby Olszewski (207) 331-8642

More information

Soil erosion is not only a source of nonpoint source pollution, but it can also threaten structures and other development. Historically, there was a single approach to shoreline erosion: fill the shoreline with rock or riprap without regard to the ecological functions of the shoreline. While this approach has been successful in solving some erosion challenges when done correctly, it creates other problems for waterbodies and wildlife. This training introduces participants to resources and alternative approaches to protecting water quality and habitat to create resilient and stable shorelines. There are many common issues along shorelines that lead to erosion and instability. Sometimes, it takes several techniques to address the compounded problems resulting from poorly-sited development and land use. Criteria for choosing appropriate shoreland BMPs or bioengineering solutions include practices that cause minimal disturbance while providing maximum benefit. A combination of several techniques can often be used to ensure that the best practices chosen are suited to the specific site.

Shoreline Stabilization Practices using OUR SHORE

Date: June 18, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Belgrade Lakes, 7 Lakes Alliance 137 Main St. P.O. Box 250 Belgrade Lakes, ME 04918

Contact: Lynn Geiger phone: 207-495-6039 x104

Soil erosion is not only a source of nonpoint source pollution, but it can also threaten structures and other development. Historically, there was a single approach to shoreline erosion: fill the shoreline with rock or riprap without regard to the ecological functions of the shoreline. While this approach has been successful in solving some erosion challenges when done correctly, it creates other problems for waterbodies and wildlife. This training introduces participants to resources and alternative approaches to protecting water quality and habitat to create resilient and stable shorelines. There are many common issues along shorelines that lead to erosion and instability. Sometimes, it takes several techniques to address the compounded problems resulting from poorly-sited development and land use. Criteria for choosing appropriate shoreland BMPs or bioengineering solutions include practices that cause minimal disturbance while providing maximum benefit. A combination of several techniques can often be used to ensure that the best practices chosen are suited to the specific site.

Basic & Advanced Erosion Control Practices

Date: October 1, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Location: Sanford, Sanford Police Department Training Room, 935 Main St, Sanford, ME 04073

Contact: Jim Kelley

More information

This course is required to become Certified in Erosion and Sedimentation Control Practices by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In this eight (8)-hour course, participants learn why erosion control practices are important; be exposed to the principles of erosion and sedimentation; learn how to properly install and maintain Erosion & Sedimentation Control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs); and become familiar with regulations requiring Erosion and Sediment BMPs. Participants are provided with information on the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of ESC practices in accordance with Maine DEP's Erosion and Sediment Control Practices Field Guide for Contractors.

The course is geared for, and of primary interest to contractors but could also be helpful to municipal code enforcement officers, consultants, engineers, and public works employees. Courses can be tailored to either an audience composed primarily of contractors or for inspectors and municipal officials.

This class qualifies for six (6) Continuing Education Hours (CEH) for individuals Certified in Erosion Control Practices by Maine DEP. Each CEH affords certified individuals one year of recertification. This class is approved for four (4) credits for Certified Tank Installers by the Board of Underground Storage Tank Installers, January 2023.

Gravel Road Maintenance

Date: June 4, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Wayne, Ladd Recreation Center, 26 Gott Rd, Wayne, ME 04284

Contact: Gabrielle Hatt

More information

4 Continuing Education Hours The proper maintenance of gravel roads in Maine is important for providing residents safe access to their properties and minimizing costly capital repairs to these roads over time; it is also a critically important part of protecting natural resources from degradation. In this training, participants will learn how proper maintenance protects water quality; about gravel road materials; how to evaluate a gravel road for maintenance needs; creating a road maintenance plan; and how to implement gravel road Best Management Practices. The class may include a site-walk on a local gravel road, which provides a real-life scenario for discussion of potential improvements and practices.

This training is intended to provide a resource for gravel road owners, town officials, contractors, and watershed organizations to better understand methods and practices for evaluating and maintaining gravel roads using the Maine DEP Camp Road Maintenance Manual

Basic & Advanced Erosion Control Practices

Date: July 9, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: Island Falls, TBD

Contact: Christopher Beyer

This course is required to become Certified in Erosion and Sedimentation Control Practices by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In this eight (8)-hour course, participants learn why erosion control practices are important; be exposed to the principles of erosion and sedimentation; learn how to properly install and maintain Erosion & Sedimentation Control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs); and become familiar with regulations requiring Erosion and Sediment BMPs. Participants are provided with information on the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of ESC practices in accordance with Maine DEP's Erosion and Sediment Control Practices Field Guide for Contractors.

The course is geared for, and of primary interest to contractors but could also be helpful to municipal code enforcement officers, consultants, engineers, and public works employees. Courses can be tailored to either an audience composed primarily of contractors or for inspectors and municipal officials.

This class qualifies for six (6) Continuing Education Hours (CEH) for individuals Certified in Erosion Control Practices by Maine DEP. Each CEH affords certified individuals one year of recertification. This class is approved for four (4) credits for Certified Tank Installers by the Board of Underground Storage Tank Installers, January 2023.

Best Management Practices for Landscapers and Homeowners

Date: June 26, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Northern Maine Development Commission, 11 West Presque Isle Road, Caribou, ME 04736

Contact: Jay Kamm 207-498-8736

Soil erosion is not just a concern on large construction sites but can also be an issue on established residential properties. Landscape professionals can help to control erosion and its impacts on natural resources; they also assist landowners to prevent future degradation to Maine's lakes, ponds, streams, and wetlands with proper site design, plant selection, and other ecological considerations. In this class, participants learn important concepts for controlling erosion on residential sites; gain a fundamental understanding of the regulations and permits required when disturbing soil near natural resources; discuss the importance of selecting and installing appropriate vegetation for the site; and explore other tools available for creating long term resilient residential landscapes.

Best Management Practices for Landscapers and Homeowners

Date: September 1, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Northern Maine Development Commission, 11 West Presque Isle Road, Caribou, ME 04736

Contact: Jay Kamm 207-498-8736

Soil erosion is not just a concern on large construction sites but can also be an issue on established residential properties. Landscape professionals can help to control erosion and its impacts on natural resources; they also assist landowners to prevent future degradation to Maine's lakes, ponds, streams, and wetlands with proper site design, plant selection, and other ecological considerations. In this class, participants learn important concepts for controlling erosion on residential sites; gain a fundamental understanding of the regulations and permits required when disturbing soil near natural resources; discuss the importance of selecting and installing appropriate vegetation for the site; and explore other tools available for creating long term resilient residential landscapes.

Gravel Road Maintenance

Date: July 30, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Bridgton, Maine Lakes Science Center, 51 Willett Road, Bridgton, Maine

Contact: Emlyn Emerock

More information

4 Continuing Education Hours The proper maintenance of gravel roads in Maine is important for providing residents safe access to their properties and minimizing costly capital repairs to these roads over time; it is also a critically important part of protecting natural resources from degradation. In this training, participants will learn how proper maintenance protects water quality; about gravel road materials; how to evaluate a gravel road for maintenance needs; creating a road maintenance plan; and how to implement gravel road Best Management Practices. The class may include a site-walk on a local gravel road, which provides a real-life scenario for discussion of potential improvements and practices.

This training is intended to provide a resource for gravel road owners, town officials, contractors, and watershed organizations to better understand methods and practices for evaluating and maintaining gravel roads using the Maine DEP Camp Road Maintenance Manual

Gravel Roads Workshop

Date: August 28, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Location: 7 Lakes Alliance, 137 Main St., Belgrade Lakes, ME 04918-0250

Contact: Lynn Geiger (207) 495-6039 x104

Pond Construction and Management Workshop

Date: June 24, 2026 - June 24, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Location: Damariscotta, Inn Along the Way at Chapman Farm, 741 Main Street, Damariscotta, ME, 04543

Contact: Knox-Lincoln SWCD

More information

If you have ever considered adding a pond to your property - whether it be for wildlife, irrigation or recreation - this is the workshop for you! You will hear from expert presenters agricultural engineer Candi Gilpatric and fisheries biologist Joe Dembeck. In this workshop, participants learn how to build and maintain a pond to enhance their landscape, increase biodiversity, maximize wildlife habitat, and help reach water management goals.

Engineer Candi Gilpatric will focus on site selection, styles of ponds, and construction methods. For those who already have ponds, Candi will discuss helpful maintenance practices to keep ponds safe and healthy. Biologist Joe Dembeck will focus on pond biology and the wildlife associated with ponds in Maine. He will discuss pond habitat features for aquatic and terrestrial wildlife, fish considerations, nuisance wildlife, and how healthy ponds can support conservation goals.

Cost: $35. Includes the comprehensive NRCS guide, "Ponds: Planning, Design, and Construction", in addition to other learning materials.

Basic & Advanced Erosion Control Practices

Date: September 17, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: Waterboro, Waterboro Town Hall, 24 Townhouse Road E. Waterboro, ME 04030

Contact: Angela Chute 207-247-6166 ext. 121

This course is required to become Certified in Erosion and Sedimentation Control Practices by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In this eight (8)-hour course, participants learn why erosion control practices are important; be exposed to the principles of erosion and sedimentation; learn how to properly install and maintain Erosion & Sedimentation Control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs); and become familiar with regulations requiring Erosion and Sediment BMPs. Participants are provided with information on the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of ESC practices in accordance with Maine DEP's Erosion and Sediment Control Practices Field Guide for Contractors.

The course is geared for, and of primary interest to contractors but could also be helpful to municipal code enforcement officers, consultants, engineers, and public works employees. Courses can be tailored to either an audience composed primarily of contractors or for inspectors and municipal officials.

This class qualifies for six (6) Continuing Education Hours (CEH) for individuals Certified in Erosion Control Practices by Maine DEP. Each CEH affords certified individuals one year of recertification. This class is approved for four (4) credits for Certified Tank Installers by the Board of Underground Storage Tank Installers, January 2023.

Basic & Advanced Erosion Control Practices

Date: September 24, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: Winthrop, Winthrop Fire Station, 17 Highland Ave, Winthrop, ME

Contact: Mark Arsenault (207) 377-7200 x 6007

This course is required to become Certified in Erosion and Sedimentation Control Practices by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In this eight (8)-hour course, participants learn why erosion control practices are important; be exposed to the principles of erosion and sedimentation; learn how to properly install and maintain Erosion & Sedimentation Control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs); and become familiar with regulations requiring Erosion and Sediment BMPs. Participants are provided with information on the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of ESC practices in accordance with Maine DEP's Erosion and Sediment Control Practices Field Guide for Contractors.

The course is geared for, and of primary interest to contractors but could also be helpful to municipal code enforcement officers, consultants, engineers, and public works employees. Courses can be tailored to either an audience composed primarily of contractors or for inspectors and municipal officials.

This class qualifies for six (6) Continuing Education Hours (CEH) for individuals Certified in Erosion Control Practices by Maine DEP. Each CEH affords certified individuals one year of recertification. This class is approved for four (4) credits for Certified Tank Installers by the Board of Underground Storage Tank Installers, January 2023.

Stream Crossing Installation Practices

Date: October 8, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: Windham, Cumberland County Soil & Water District, 35 Main Street, Windham, ME 04062

Contact: Abby Olszewski 2073318640

Maine has approximately 45,000 miles of rivers and streams, many of which intersect with the 30,000 miles of roads throughout the state. The design and proper installation of stream crossings is important for the continued resiliency of the road network and reducing flooding impacts; its also extremely important for the ability of fish and wildlife to access the habitat needed to sustain their populations for generations to come. During this four (4) hour introductory course, participants are exposed to various aspects of stream crossing design such as structure selection and sizing; requirements for aquatic organism passage; regulations related to new and replacement stream crossings; and tools and techniques for the installation of crossings that minimize the impacts of construction activities on the stream to maintain water quality.

This training is intended to be a resource for road managers and association members, town officials, contractors, and watershed organizations as an introduction to proper selection and installation of stream crossings throughout Maine.

Basic & Advanced Erosion Control Practices

Date: October 15, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: Rangeley, TBD

Contact: Breck Parker

This course is required to become Certified in Erosion and Sedimentation Control Practices by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In this eight (8)-hour course, participants learn why erosion control practices are important; be exposed to the principles of erosion and sedimentation; learn how to properly install and maintain Erosion & Sedimentation Control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs); and become familiar with regulations requiring Erosion and Sediment BMPs. Participants are provided with information on the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of ESC practices in accordance with Maine DEP's Erosion and Sediment Control Practices Field Guide for Contractors.

The course is geared for, and of primary interest to contractors but could also be helpful to municipal code enforcement officers, consultants, engineers, and public works employees. Courses can be tailored to either an audience composed primarily of contractors or for inspectors and municipal officials.

This class qualifies for six (6) Continuing Education Hours (CEH) for individuals Certified in Erosion Control Practices by Maine DEP. Each CEH affords certified individuals one year of recertification. This class is approved for four (4) credits for Certified Tank Installers by the Board of Underground Storage Tank Installers, January 2023.

Stream Crossing Installation Practices

Date: October 22, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: TBD, Midcoast area

Contact:

Maine has approximately 45,000 miles of rivers and streams, many of which intersect with the 30,000 miles of roads throughout the state. The design and proper installation of stream crossings is important for the continued resiliency of the road network and reducing flooding impacts; its also extremely important for the ability of fish and wildlife to access the habitat needed to sustain their populations for generations to come. During this four (4) hour introductory course, participants are exposed to various aspects of stream crossing design such as structure selection and sizing; requirements for aquatic organism passage; regulations related to new and replacement stream crossings; and tools and techniques for the installation of crossings that minimize the impacts of construction activities on the stream to maintain water quality.

This training is intended to be a resource for road managers and association members, town officials, contractors, and watershed organizations as an introduction to proper selection and installation of stream crossings throughout Maine.

Basic & Advanced Erosion Control Practices

Date: November 5, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: St. John

Contact: Casey Zippel

This course is required to become Certified in Erosion and Sedimentation Control Practices by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In this eight (8)-hour course, participants learn why erosion control practices are important; be exposed to the principles of erosion and sedimentation; learn how to properly install and maintain Erosion & Sedimentation Control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs); and become familiar with regulations requiring Erosion and Sediment BMPs. Participants are provided with information on the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of ESC practices in accordance with Maine DEP's Erosion and Sediment Control Practices Field Guide for Contractors.

The course is geared for, and of primary interest to contractors but could also be helpful to municipal code enforcement officers, consultants, engineers, and public works employees. Courses can be tailored to either an audience composed primarily of contractors or for inspectors and municipal officials.

This class qualifies for six (6) Continuing Education Hours (CEH) for individuals Certified in Erosion Control Practices by Maine DEP. Each CEH affords certified individuals one year of recertification. This class is approved for four (4) credits for Certified Tank Installers by the Board of Underground Storage Tank Installers, January 2023.

Basic & Advanced Erosion Control Practices

Date: November 12, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: TBD, Midcoast area

Contact: Julie Sells

This course is required to become Certified in Erosion and Sedimentation Control Practices by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In this eight (8)-hour course, participants learn why erosion control practices are important; be exposed to the principles of erosion and sedimentation; learn how to properly install and maintain Erosion & Sedimentation Control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs); and become familiar with regulations requiring Erosion and Sediment BMPs. Participants are provided with information on the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of ESC practices in accordance with Maine DEP's Erosion and Sediment Control Practices Field Guide for Contractors.

The course is geared for, and of primary interest to contractors but could also be helpful to municipal code enforcement officers, consultants, engineers, and public works employees. Courses can be tailored to either an audience composed primarily of contractors or for inspectors and municipal officials.

This class qualifies for six (6) Continuing Education Hours (CEH) for individuals Certified in Erosion Control Practices by Maine DEP. Each CEH affords certified individuals one year of recertification. This class is approved for four (4) credits for Certified Tank Installers by the Board of Underground Storage Tank Installers, January 2023.

Basic & Advanced Erosion Control Practices

Date: November 19, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: Machias, Sunrise County Economic Council, 7 Ames Way, Machias, ME 04654

Contact: Tanya Rucosky

This course is required to become Certified in Erosion and Sedimentation Control Practices by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). In this eight (8)-hour course, participants learn why erosion control practices are important; be exposed to the principles of erosion and sedimentation; learn how to properly install and maintain Erosion & Sedimentation Control (ESC) Best Management Practices (BMPs); and become familiar with regulations requiring Erosion and Sediment BMPs. Participants are provided with information on the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of ESC practices in accordance with Maine DEP's Erosion and Sediment Control Practices Field Guide for Contractors.

The course is geared for, and of primary interest to contractors but could also be helpful to municipal code enforcement officers, consultants, engineers, and public works employees. Courses can be tailored to either an audience composed primarily of contractors or for inspectors and municipal officials.

This class qualifies for six (6) Continuing Education Hours (CEH) for individuals Certified in Erosion Control Practices by Maine DEP. Each CEH affords certified individuals one year of recertification. This class is approved for four (4) credits for Certified Tank Installers by the Board of Underground Storage Tank Installers, January 2023.