Islands on the Edge: Resilience and Risk in Maine’s Year-Round Island Communities

Abstract

Maine’s 15 year-round island communities are on the front lines of converging challenges—including climate change, housing shortages, volunteer burnout, and economic fragility. Based on a 2024 learning tour in the aftermath of record-breaking winter storms, this article explores the vulnerabilities and strengths of these unique rural communities. Despite rising sea levels, declining fisheries, and seasonal population pressures, islanders are responding with creativity and collaboration—from community-owned housing and aquaculture diversification to region-wide climate planning. Drawing on firsthand observations and community conversations, the piece highlights both the urgency for place-based policy solutions and the islands as inspiring examples for adaptation in rural and coastal regions nationwide.