Last week I visited Ram Island with a group of peers. We spent almost two hours on this small island collecting trash, observing biodiversity, and learning about the land’s history. Collectively we removed rubber, metal, plastic, and more from the beaches. The island itself was donated to the University of New England after the owners were unable to sell the land and its accompanying home. Ever since the island was gifted, small teams have boated out to begin cleaning the home and land which appeared perfectly preserved and eerily untouched. The home still had fishing equipment leaned against the wall, a coffee pot plugged into the kitchen wall, and hats hung by the door. The home felt like a time capsule from another century. Unfortunately, the trip ended abruptly when the weather turned and my group was ushered off of the suddenly dangerous island. The overall experience was gratifying and exciting. I am ecstatic I was able to be part of the team to help restore Ram Island to its natural glory.

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