THE SPIRIT OF MAINE

“Tree of Life”

-       From her mountains to her great Atlantic Shores -

THE NORTH STAR

Facts:

The North Star (Polaris) on the new Maine license plate, introduced in 2025, represents the state’s motto "Dirigo" ("I lead") and symbolizes guidance and Maine's position as the northernmost state in the contiguous US. It is part of a design inspired by the original 1901 Maine flag, honoring the state's heritage

 

MAINE EASTERN WHITE PINE TREE 

Facts:

-        Official Maine State Tree (since 1945)

-        New State of Maine License Plate (2025)

-        Known as the “Tree of Peace” or “Tree of Life”

-        Immortality – retaining its blue/green needles throughout the year

-        Maine – top producer of white pine lumber

-        Habitats: for white-tailed deer and bald eagles

-        Fast Growing: at first, then slows (can grow 100-120 feet tall) typical 50-80 feet

 

MAINE LOBSTER

Facts:

-        Known as the Northern or American Lobster

-        (Maine being the most productive) found along the Atlantic Coast from Canada to North Carolina 

-        Meat: is rich, sweet, and mild flavor

-        Growth and Molting: Shed their shells during growth about 25 times their first 5-7 years until one-pound in weight.

-        “Biologically Immortal,” (do not get weaker with age and can live over 100 years)

-        1800’s considered a “poor man’s food”, fed to prisoners, and used as a fertilizer.

-        Maine has strict conservation laws, including female breeders to be released if caught.