Simply stated, the mission of the Maine Agricultural and Forest Experiment Station (MAFES) is to conduct research for Maine and its people. MAFES research focuses on the natural resource areas that have long been the backbone of Maine's economy: agriculture, forestry and wildlife, marine fisheries and aquaculture, and tourism. Our scientists solve real-world problems in these areas, designing new production methods, developing new pest-management and disease treatments, creating and testing new value-added products, investigating the nutritional needs of Maine citizens, and providing important economic analyses for Maine's natural-resource-based industries and communities. The overarching goal of this research is to improve the quality of life for Maine people by enhancing the profitability and sustainability of Maine's natural-resource-based industries and protecting Maine's environment and the health of its citizens.

In addition to working in research laboratories on the University of Maine campus in Orono, MAFES scientists work in the fields and forests of Maine, on the ocean (and under the water), and in Maine communities. They conduct research at our research farms in Monmouth, Presque Isle, Jonesboro, and Old Town, on the farms of individual farmer-cooperators, and at forests spread throughout the state. They work with University of Maine Cooperative Extension colleagues to deliver their findings to Maine producers and citizens. As part of the nationwide federal/state partnership with the USDA's Cooperative States Research, Education, and Extension Service, MAFES researchers also work with scientists at other state experiment stations to pool resources and efforts as they solve problems that extend beyond state borders.

It is important to us that our research is relevant to the people of Maine. I invite you to explore our Web site to find out more about what we do and to contact us with any questions or suggestions.