School Programs
The District works on programs in schools and with groups throughout Cumberland County.  Much of school-based work is funded through grants, although the District also provides education to those not covered by a specific project. 

During the 2007-8 school year, the District is working on the following programs.  To learn more about each, follow the link to the left.

Stormwater Education Program: This program provides water education to 13 specific communities in the Greater Portland Area.  Topics include watersheds, water movement, nonpoint source pollution & solutions, water quality tests, cumulative impact, and stormwater specifics.  Funding for this program is provided by the Interlocal Stormwater Workgroup. 

Presumpscot River "Maps for Schools" Program:  This place-based education program is offered to schools in the Presumpscot River Watershed.  Lessons are designed to raise awareness and appreciation of the Presumpscot River, its resources, and students' power in shaping the future of both.  Funding for this Program is provided by the Presumpscot River Targeted Watershed Initiative Grant. 

Maine Harvest Lunch Program:  This program promotes local foods in school cafeterias in order to raise awareness about and consumption of local foods.  Local food lessons and a poster contest precede an entirely locally grown meal served in the school cafeteria.  The program started in the Gorham school system and continues to expand. 

Southern Maine Children's Water Festival:  This one-day event draws about 800 4th, 5th, & 6th grade students from all over Southern Maine to learn all about water.  This year's theme is "Water - it's all about ME!"  Students enjoy an exhibit hall, stage show, "Dripial Pursuit" competition, and classroom presentations. 

Envirothon:  This environmental competition is conducted throughout Maine in the spring.  High school students test their knowledge of natural resources and current environmental issues in an outdoor setting.  Teams of three to five students are tested at five stations:  Wildlife, Aquatics, Forestry, Soils, and a Current Natural Resources Issue.  This year's current issue is Recreational Impacts on Natural Resources. 

Other Offerings:  Soil & water conservation education is available to schools & groups throughout Cumberland County, depending upon availability.  Schools have participated in water quality sampling lessons and events, for example.

Adult Education Programs
The District offers education to adults throughout Cumberland County as well, such as Septic Socials and Frontrunner Workshops.  For more information on these offerings, click here.