On June 27, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree spoke at a press conference outside her office to join a growing number of voices concerned about the effects of ocean acidification.  Much of the carbon released into the atmosphere gets absorbed into the world's ocean, creating a chemical reaction that turns the water more acidic.  Among other negative effects, it weakens the shells of many crustaceans, some of which help drive Maine's economy.  Pingree has introduced a bill that would study the impact of ocean acidification on coastal communities in Maine and other parts of the country. Scroll below for more images, including a dramatic visual of what's happening to our water.

Young clams that ocean acidification puts at risk by weakening their shells.

Using dye and a piece of dry ice (carbon dioxide in its solid form), Joe Payne of Friends of Casco Bay shows the effects of carbon on sea water.  As the water becomes more acidic to the dye goes from clear to dark red. 

State Senator Chris Johnson talks about a new panel created by the Legislature to take steps to address ocean acidification in Maine.

Eric Horne, an oyster farmer in Casco Bay, speaks to the threats of ocean acidification on Maine's coastal economy.

Beth Ahearn of Maine Conservation Voters on the need to protect Maine's natural resources.