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​​November 2020
The Friends of Scarborough Marsh (FOSM) is an all-volunteer coalition of private citizens, businesses, organizations, and government whose sole focus is the restoration and protection of the Scarborough Marsh through conservation and education. Despite the many challenges presented by the pandemic this year, FOSM has been able to successfully continue our work with community partners to set priorities, make decisions, take action, and measure results.  We have:
  • Partnered with the Scarborough Land Trust to purchase the 14-acre Blue Point Preserve on Scarborough Marsh
  • Continued the Scarborough Marsh Lecture Series covering a variety of topics relative to the marsh online
  • Partnered with Southern Maine Conservation Collaborative on a Birds of the Scarborough Marsh lecture offered through Portland Public Library Sustainability Series
  • Sponsored the Maine Audubon Virtual Field trip of the marsh for schools
  • In partnership with the Maine DEP, FOSM conducted the second field season of water quality monitoring in eight marsh tributary streams and rivers
  • Conducted two field studies to advance our scientific understanding of the invasive Phragmites reed problem in the marsh and its control.  One study focused on the groundwater salinity in three areas of the marsh; the other study conducted by a USM student evaluated soil salinity as a predictor of potential Phragmites invasion
  • Created Scarborough Marsh Recreation Map using funding provided by the Prouts Neck Association
With your help we plan to continue our efforts into 2021 through:
  • Implementation of a demonstration project with USM to assess the effectiveness of soil salinity modification for controlling the spread of Phragmites
  • Sponsorship of a USM intern to assess the potential influence of current stormwater discharge patterns on the Phragmites invasion and other changes to the saltmarsh plant ecology
  • Development and provision of grant support for the “Scarborough Marsh Friendly” Yard-Scaping program
  • Working with Scarborough DPW on signage of the Scarborough Marsh Watershed to heighten public awareness
  • Continuing our work with other conservation organizations and Southern Maine Conservation Collaborative
  • Continuation of our Marsh-related lecture series with on-line formats as we enter year four of this new series
  • Expansion of our online web-based nature exploration of the Scarborough Marsh with Maine Audubon
  • Expanding marsh-related activities and opportunities for all, including at the new Blue Point Preserve
You can continue to be part of the essential work that will help ensure the marsh remains a vibrant and healthy wild space for all to enjoy! Please give generously by year-end and join us as a Friend of Scarborough Marsh. 

Donate by mail or through network for good
Mailing
PO Box 7049, Scarborough, ME 04070

Phone
(207) 650-7482

Email
info@scarboroughmarsh.org
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