Generating the Science Behind Climate Adaptation with the Schoodic Institute
In episode 236 of America Adapts, we’re heading to coastal Maine — a place where science, community, and nature all come together to tackle climate change. Adaptation doesn’t just happen on its own. It takes data, observation, and sometimes years of research to generate the science that guides decisions. That science is often messy, imperfect, but it’s the foundation for every smart adaptation. Effective adaptation requires partnerships. As you will hear, in Maine, you’ll find scientists, historians, local communities, and institutions like the Schoodic Institute working side by side. And it’s not just about Acadia National Park — the lessons and approaches being tested here have implications far beyond Maine’s rocky shores. In this podcast, you’ll hear how these partners are mapping mudflats, tracking rockweed, digging into history, and asking hard questions about how to connect science with the urgent work of building resilience. This is the story of the science behind adaptation — and the unique role Maine plays in showing what’s possible.
This episode was generously sponsored by the Schoodic Institute.
Experts in this Episode:
Dr. Nick Fisichelli – Executive Director of the Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview
Dr. Chris Nadeau – Chief Adaptation Scientist at the Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview
Dr. Hannah Webber - Marine Ecology Director at the Schoodic institute - transcript of interview
David Manski – Vice-chair of the Board at the Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview
Lauren Gibson - Wild Acadia Coordinator at Friends of Acadia - transcript of interview
Raney Bench - Executive Director at the Mt. Desert Island Historic Society - transcript of interview
Catherine Schmitt - Science Communication Specialist at the Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview
Julia Rush - Fellow at the Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview - transcript of interview
Gillian Audier- Science Research Fellow at the Schoodic institute - transcript of interview
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Links in this episode:
Landscape of Change
https://mdihistory.org/landscape-of-change
Maine’s Climate Future Report
https://climatechange.umaine.edu/climate-matters/maines-climate-future/
Acadia National Park
https://www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm
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