Kristen Grant, Marine Extension Associate Wells NERR 342 Laudholm Farm Road · Wells, ME 04090 Phone 207.646.1555 x115 · Fax 207.646.2930 Email kngrant@maine.edu

As Southern Maine Marine Extension Associate, Kristen has worked in that region of the state since 1999. Her office in Wells is housed at the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve, facilitating partnerships with NOAA colleagues there.

Coastal Southern Maine's proximity to urban centers such as Boston has translated into significant population and development pressure as these metropolitan areas expand. These realities create a set of regional issues and opportunities that distinguish this region from other parts of the state.

In response to these issues, the majority of Kristen's work focuses on the interactions between the people, the resources, and the ecosystems of the coast. Her work includes a range of activities to build the capacity of coastal communities to plan and adapt for their future, such as understanding erosion trends and planning for coastal hazards, considering housing options, addressing coastal access and waterfront development issues, and engaging community stakeholders. To this work, Kristen brings a Master of Science degree focused on Environmental Education, and has an extensive background in outreach education and community development.