THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINE’S MUDFLATS

Tidal mudflats are one of the most dynamic habitats along Maine’s coast, and their complex ecosystems demand additional study. Organisms living in the soft mud sediment sustain many species, including humans. Migrating shorebirds feed voraciously on marine macroinvertebrates in the intertidal mud, giving these small birds enough energy to make long nonstop flights across the ocean to their wintering grounds. MDIFW wildlife biologist Chris West will help us dig deep to explore mudflat biodiversity and how this critical habitat has changed over time, touching on topics such as cultural significance, resource management, ecological importance, sediment composition, historical uses, and the impacts Maine’s mudflats now face due to climate change and coastal development pressures.

Hybrid Zoom/in-person at FPAC; pre-register for Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0ofu6vrTMuEtLJEyDtd2tUNFWrf-ZVgEVf