Environment and Sustainability Programs

Sustainability, Innovation, & Commitment

Where Science Meets Stewardship

At the University of Maine at Farmington (UMF), studying the environment goes beyond the classroom. Nestled in Western Maine on the doorstep of mountains, rivers, and lakes, our programs give students hands-on opportunities to explore and protect the natural world. From field research in forests and waterways to community-based sustainability projects, UMF prepares students for careers in environmental science, policy, education, and sustainable innovation. Here, you’ll gain the skills and experience to make a real-world impact—while surrounded by some of Maine’s most inspiring landscapes.

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Outdoor Recreation and Business Administration students stands smiling in front of green truck.
Outdoor Recreation and Business Administration students stands smiling in front of green truck.

Explore Our Programs

UMF offers a diverse array of majors, minors, and certificates designed to meet the needs of aspiring environmental leaders.

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Why UMF for Environment & Sustainability?

Gateway to Maine’s Outdoors

Located in Western Maine, UMF sits on the doorstep of mountains, rivers, and lakes, offering unparalleled opportunities for field research, outdoor learning, and exploration.

Close-knit Community

With small class sizes and personalized mentorship, students collaborate closely with faculty and peers, gaining the skills, confidence, and connections to succeed.

Affordability & Quality

UMF provides one of the most affordable liberal arts educations in the Northeast, combining high-quality academics with hands-on experiences that set students apart.

Rooted in Maine, Growing a Sustainable Future

UMF’s environmental programs empower students to make a real difference through hands-on learning, sustainability initiatives, and community-based projects. Whether through Research Learning Experiences (RLEs), field research, internships, or campus sustainability efforts, students turn classroom knowledge into meaningful environmental action.

Experiential Learning

Learn from Experts in the Field

Our faculty bring real-world experience, cutting-edge research, and a passion for sustainability to every classroom and field project. At UMF, you’ll work closely with professors who mentor, inspire, and guide you through hands-on learning, internships, and research opportunities.
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Andrew Barton
Andrew Barton

Professor of Biology

About Andrew
Brad Dearden
Brad Dearden

Associate Professor of Geography and Environmental Planning

About Brad
Christopher Magri
Christopher Magri

Associate Professor of Physics

About Christopher
Donelle Schwalm
Donelle Schwalm

Assistant Professor of Environmental Biology

About Donelle
Jean Doty
Jean Doty

Professor of Biology

About Jean
Julia Daly
Julia Daly

Professor of Geology

About Julia
Lucas Kellett
Lucas Kellett

Associate Professor of Anthropology

About Lucas
Matthew McCourt
Matthew McCourt

Associate Professor of Geography

About Matthew
Meghan Price
Meghan Price

Lecturer, Alpine Operations and Recreation

About Meghan
Rachel Hovel
Rachel Hovel

Associate Professor of Biology

About Rachel

News & Stories

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Fiddlehead Festival logo
UMF celebrates local food with 13th annual Fiddlehead Festival, May 2
April 13, 2026
FARMINGTON, ME  (April 13, 2026)—Time to once again celebrate local food at the 13th annual Maine Fiddlehead Festival on the University of Maine at Farmington campus, Saturday, May  2, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  The festival highlights Maine’s dedication…
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Thomas Gilman
UMF welcomes Thomas Gillman, New Zealand specialist in sustainable tourism and Libra Scholar, to campus in April for multiple public events
March 30, 2026
FARMINGTON, ME  (March 30, 2026)— The University of Maine at Farmington in partnership with the UMF Office of Global Education is excited to announce that Dr. Thomas Gillman, a New Zealand specialist in sustainable tourism, will be collaborating with the University…
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University of Maine at Farmington sign
UMF recognizes top student researchers as 2025-26 Michael Wilson Scholars & Fellows
March 16, 2026
Undergraduate research helps UMF students develop professionally with in-depth, career-focused investigations FARMINGTON, ME  (March 16, 2026 )—The University of Maine at Farmington is proud to announce the UMF Michael Wilson Fellows and Scholars for the 2025-26 academic year. This recognition names…
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UMF biology professor helps students collect a tick from a tick drag cloth
UMF improves student retention, workforce preparation by tripling enrollment in hands-on Research Learning Experiences
February 11, 2026
FARMINGTON, ME  (February 11, 2026)—The University of Maine at Farmington (UMF) is strengthening student retention and workforce readiness thanks to an explosion of enrollment in high-impact, hands-on Research Learning Experiences (RLEs). Since launching RLEs at UMF in the 2022-23 academic year,…
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