About the University of Maine Cooperative Extension
The University of Maine Cooperative Extension provides research-based education and outreach programs that support agriculture, horticulture, forestry, natural resources, food systems, youth development, and community well-being throughout Maine. As the public outreach arm of the University of Maine, Extension connects residents, farmers, foresters, businesses, gardeners, and communities with practical solutions backed by scientific research.
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Maine’s landscape includes rugged coastlines, extensive forests, agricultural valleys, lakes, mountains, and rural communities. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension develops programs specifically designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities associated with northern climates and New England ecosystems.
Core Services Offered
The University of Maine Cooperative Extension provides educational resources and technical assistance across a wide range of disciplines that support economic development, environmental stewardship, and healthy communities.
Agriculture and Crop Production
Agriculture remains an important part of Maine’s economy, with production ranging from potatoes and blueberries to dairy and specialty crops. Extension specialists help producers improve productivity and sustainability.
- Crop production management
- Integrated pest management
- Soil health programs
- Nutrient management planning
- Irrigation and water management
- Agricultural business development
Extension programs support potato growers, blueberry producers, vegetable farmers, orchard managers, and livestock operations throughout the state.
Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture
Maine has a strong local food movement supported by Extension education and outreach.
- Local food systems development
- Farm-to-school initiatives
- Sustainable farming practices
- Food preservation education
- Direct marketing assistance
- Small farm support programs
Home Gardening and Horticulture
Gardeners throughout Maine rely on Extension resources for practical advice tailored to northern growing conditions.
- Vegetable gardening
- Fruit production
- Landscape maintenance
- Tree and shrub care
- Soil improvement
- Garden pest identification
Master Gardener Volunteer Program
The Maine Master Gardener Volunteer Program trains residents to provide gardening education and community outreach throughout the state.
Master Gardeners assist residents with:
- Plant selection
- Pest identification
- Composting techniques
- Pollinator-friendly gardening
- Native plant landscaping
- Sustainable gardening practices
Forestry and Natural Resources
Forests cover nearly 90 percent of Maine’s land area, making forestry one of the state’s most important industries.
- Forest stewardship
- Tree health management
- Wildlife habitat improvement
- Watershed protection
- Forest conservation planning
- Natural resource management
Marine and Coastal Programs
Maine’s coastal economy and marine resources play a critical role in the state’s identity and economy.
- Coastal ecosystem education
- Marine resource management
- Aquaculture support
- Water quality programs
- Fisheries education
- Environmental stewardship initiatives
4-H Youth Development
The Maine 4-H program provides educational opportunities that help young people develop leadership skills and practical knowledge.
- STEM education
- Environmental sciences
- Agricultural education
- Animal science projects
- Leadership development
- Community service activities
Pest Pressures and Challenges in Maine
Maine’s forests, farms, gardens, and residential properties face a variety of pest challenges. While the state’s colder climate limits some pest species, it also creates unique management concerns related to forest health, invasive insects, and seasonal pest outbreaks.
Ticks
Ticks are among the most significant public health concerns in Maine. Populations have increased substantially in recent decades, creating greater risks for outdoor workers, homeowners, and recreation enthusiasts.
Common tick species include:
- Blacklegged Ticks (Deer Ticks)
- American Dog Ticks
- Winter Ticks
- Brown Dog Ticks
Extension specialists provide educational resources covering tick identification, habitat management, personal protection, and disease prevention.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are widespread throughout Maine during the warmer months and can be particularly abundant near wetlands, forests, and standing water.
Extension programs provide information on:
- Mosquito biology
- Breeding habitat reduction
- Integrated mosquito management
- Personal protection strategies
- Community mosquito control efforts
Forest Pests
Maine’s extensive forests face threats from numerous native and invasive insects that can impact timber production and ecosystem health.
Important forest pests include:
- Spruce Budworms
- Emerald Ash Borers
- Hemlock Woolly Adelgids
- Bark Beetles
- Forest Tent Caterpillars
- Gypsy Moths (Spongy Moths)
Extension forestry specialists help landowners monitor tree health and respond to emerging pest threats.
Potato Pests
Maine’s potato industry faces a variety of insect and disease challenges that can impact yields and crop quality.
Common potato pests include:
- Colorado Potato Beetles
- Potato Aphids
- Leafhoppers
- Wireworms
- Flea Beetles
- Cutworms
Extension specialists provide management recommendations tailored to Maine’s growing conditions.
Garden and Landscape Pests
Home gardens and ornamental landscapes are affected by a variety of insects and plant diseases throughout the growing season.
Common garden pests include:
- Aphids
- Japanese Beetles
- Flea Beetles
- Cabbage Worms
- Leafminers
- Spider Mites
Extension publications help gardeners identify pests and implement environmentally responsible management practices.
Stored Product Pests
Stored food products and grains can be affected by insects that reduce quality and create nuisance concerns.
Common stored product pests include:
- Indian Meal Moths
- Flour Beetles
- Sawtoothed Grain Beetles
- Rice Weevils
- Grain Mites
Extension resources provide prevention and management recommendations for homes, farms, and food storage facilities.
Invasive Species
Maine continues to face challenges from invasive insects and organisms that threaten forests, agriculture, and natural ecosystems.
Notable invasive pests include:
- Emerald Ash Borers
- Hemlock Woolly Adelgids
- Browntail Moths
- Spotted Lanternflies
- Asian Longhorned Beetles
Extension personnel work closely with state and federal agencies to support monitoring, detection, and public education efforts.
Integrated Pest Management Programs
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a key component of University of Maine Extension pest education programs.
IPM strategies focus on:
- Accurate pest identification
- Pest monitoring and scouting
- Preventive cultural practices
- Biological control methods
- Habitat modification
- Responsible pesticide use
These approaches help reduce pest populations while protecting beneficial organisms and sensitive natural environments.
Research and Diagnostic Services
The University of Maine conducts extensive research focused on agriculture, forestry, pest management, food systems, and environmental sustainability.
Research areas include:
- Crop protection
- Forest health management
- Biological control
- Integrated pest management
- Invasive species research
- Climate-related pest impacts
Extension specialists help translate scientific research into practical recommendations for Maine residents and businesses.
Educational Publications and Resources
The University of Maine Cooperative Extension publishes a wide variety of educational materials covering agriculture, pest management, gardening, forestry, food systems, and natural resources.
Popular Resources Include:
- Pest identification guides
- Crop production manuals
- Garden pest fact sheets
- Forest health resources
- Food preservation publications
- Invasive species alerts
Many publications are available online and are regularly updated to reflect current research findings and emerging pest concerns.
Contact the University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Whether you need help identifying a pest, managing a crop, improving a garden, protecting forest resources, addressing tick concerns, or supporting local food production, the University of Maine Cooperative Extension provides access to research-based information and local expertise throughout the state.
Residents can contact their local Extension office or visit the University of Maine Cooperative Extension website to access educational publications, pest management resources, diagnostic assistance, and professional guidance.