PORTLAND -- Ever heard of a bioneer?

It's a new term for a people who "are social and scientific innovators from all walks of life and disciplines who have peered deep into the heart of living systems to understand how nature operates, and to mimic 'nature's operating instructions' to serve human ends without harming the web of life."

And a gathering of them begins today at the University of Southern Maine where people with the earth and its future in mind will gather for "Kindle" - A Northern New England Bioneers Conference.

There will be a number of speakers and workshops throughout the weekend, and it's not too late to sign up. On-site registration is available by heading to USM's Abromson Center, the hub of the weekend activities. Whether you are a pioneering bioneer, or a expert one, all are invited.

To find out more about the conference, a schedule of events or for more information, click on the Kindle icon at right.

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