Maine’s Three Ring Binder

Although Maine is a rural state, it has had success in keeping pace with technological changes since the rise of the Internet 20 years ago. In this section, authors describe some of these successes and the challenges faced by both consumers and libraries in the new digital environment. Fletcher Kittredge presents the history and promise of Maine’s “Three Ring Binder,” a new and important fiber optic network that will bring high-speed broadband connectivity to rural parts of the state. The Three Ring Binder is expected both to improve economic opportunities for businesses and to increase high-speed Internet access for underserved populations

Forest Landowners\u27 Willingness to Sell Carbon Credits: A Pilot Study

Managing forests to sequester carbon is often mentioned as a strategy to address concerns about increasing levels of carbon dioxide and climate change. In Massachusetts and many other eastern states, most forest is owned by private families and individuals. Consequently, it is important to understand the factors that influence the likelihood of landowners choosing to sell sequestered carbon and participate in the carbon marketplace. Results from a recent small pilot study suggest landowners significantly favor higher payments, no withdrawal penalty, and, unexpectedly, longer time commitments. Importantly, at the current carbon price very few participants (less than 7 percent) would be willing to sell. Additional studies are being conducted with a larger sample to better understand how socioeconomic variables and ownership attitudes influence forest owners\u27 willingness to enroll in carbon markets

Reflecting on 20 Years

As MaineBiz celebrates twenty years in business, the founders and leaders of other 20-year-old companies reflect on their years in business. Those sharing their thoughts are: Jesse Abbott, Advance Technology Inc., Scarborough; Fred Forsley, Shipyard Brewing Co., Portland; Ed McKersie, Pro Search Inc., Portland; Mary Allen Lindemann, Coffee by Design, Portland; and Fletcher Kittredge, GWI, Biddeford