Station: WPOR

Testing reveals high levels of lead in Lewiston schools

LEWISTON, Maine (AP) A first round of testing of water in Lewiston schools yielded high levels of lead in about a third of water sources, leading school officials to restrict some water sources.

Maine eyes new license for commercial halibut fishers

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) Maine lawmakers are close to creating a new class of license for the state’s commercial halibut fishermen.

More ticks test positive for Lyme disease in Maine

The University of Maine’s tick lab found that a higher percentage of ticks tested positive for the pathogen that causes Lyme disease last year than the previous year.

Maine lobstermen had big year, set value record of $725M

Maine’s lobster industry bounced back in 2021 and set a record $725 million for the total value of lobsters brought to the docks, and which was over $300 million more than 2020, state regulators said Monday.

Bills would lower drug prices, expand contraceptive coverage

A pair of bills in the Maine Legislature would require state-regulated health care plans to cover all prescription contraceptives while linking prescription drugs rates to lower costs paid in Canada.

High-speed chase in Minot ends in rollover crash

The driver involved in a high-speed chase in Minot on Monday reportedly flipped his vehicle.

Threat cleared at Maine Medical Center following discovery of suspicious package

The front entrance at Maine Medical Center in Portland was closed Monday morning after officers were called in to investigate a suspicious package.

State of the art VA clinic opening in Portland, Maine

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) The Veterans Administration’s newest health clinic offers a 62,500-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in Maine’s largest city.

Senators want more staff at National Parks as visits grow

BAR HARBOR, Maine (AP) Maine’s independent senator and a colleague from Montana want more staffing at America’s National Parks to keep up with increased attendance.

Atlantic salmon returns drop in critical Maine river

ORONO, Maine (AP) Salmon counters found fewer of the endangered fish in the Penobscot River last year than in any year since 2016.

Latest Headlines

8 hours ago in Local

Trump Shuts Down Offshore Wind in New England; Nova Scotia Eyes Opportunity

The administration’s freeze on U.S. ocean wind projects could set clean energy back a decade. Nova Scotia’s massive Wind West project hopes to fill the gap and even sell power to the U.S.

8 hours ago in Local

Federal Policy Could Push Hundreds of Mainers Out of Long-Term Housing

HUD plans to cut funding for permanent supportive housing and shift to transitional programs, leaving vulnerable Mainers at risk of homelessness. Advocates warn shelters could be overwhelmed.

9 hours ago in Local

Maine Announces $550K in Grants to Boost Coastal Resilience

The state just announced $550,000 in grants to help communities prepare for future storms and flooding. Towns and regional groups can apply for funding to strengthen infrastructure and plan for climate risks. Applications are due Jan. 5.

9 hours ago in Local

Portland Unveils Maine’s First Electric Boat Charger

Portland just unveiled the state’s first electric boat charger at Wright’s Wharf. The move is part of a push to cut emissions and noise in the marine industry.

9 hours ago in Local

Overdose Deaths Continue to Decline in Maine for Third Year

Overdose deaths have dropped for the third year in a row! Fatal overdoses are down 23% compared to last year, and officials credit naloxone distribution and expanded treatment options. If the trend continues, Maine could see the fewest overdose deaths in six years.