From the Editor: Coastal enterprises embody the range of economic growth in Maine
The Maine coast is often associated with tourism, and while that’s still true it’s only part of the story.
This issue’s focus on the midcoast and Downeast delves into businesses and nonprofits that are focused as much on attracting people (including employees) as they are on economic growth.
From resorts to research labs to farmed oysters, Maine’s coastal areas are creating jobs and stoking the economy.
On the midcoast, the Damariscotta River has been at the heart of producing farm-raised oysters since the mid-1980s. The oysters produced there are a staple on restaurant menus but, as Jessica Hall reports, the region is also developing a reputation for being reliable. Some 60% of Maine’s oysters come from the Damariscotta River. See our cover story, “Damariscotta region rich in all things oyster,” which starts on Page 12.
In Camden, the boatbuilder Lyman-Morse has been steadily upgrading the former Wayfayer boatyard, adding restaurants and amenities while improving the boat maintenance area. A fire set back the operation, but now President Drew Lyman is focused on rebuilding and continuing to improve the site. See Laurie Schreiber’s story, “Harbor horizons,” which starts on Page 18.
Looking further Downeast for our regional roundup, Renee Cordes talks with the Island Institute’s new president, Tony Chatwin, who has big plans to further the nonprofit’s work with unabridged islands in Maine, focusing on economic development but also sustainability. Renee also checks in with innkeepers in Phippsburg and Deer Isle to see how they fared during the summer season; business was good, but they could use more workers. Workforce development is also a theme at Bar Harbor-based Jackson Laboratory, which continues its hiring efforts.
Our list for this issue is Maine’s largest private schools. See Page 30.
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