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 – President and CEO of Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview
• Dr. Chris Nadeau – Climate Change Adaptation Scientist at Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview
• Dr. Hannah Webber - Marine Ecology Director at Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview
• David Manski – Vice-chair of the Board at 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 Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview
• Julia Rush - Cathy and Jim Gero Acadia Early-Career Fellow in Science Communication at Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview - transcript of interview
• Gillian Audier- Cathy and Jim Gero Acadia Early-Career Fellow in Science Research at Schoodic Institute - transcript of interview

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Links in this episode:

Schoodic Institute Science Page
https://schoodicinstitute.org/science/

Landscape of Change
https://mdihistory.org/landscape-of-change

Maine's Climate Future Report
https://climatechange.umaine.edu/climate-matters/maines-climate-future/

https://friendsofacadia.org/

Acadia National Park
https://www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm

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