How did Nearview create the CEMAP data?

Nearview used drones, multispectral cameras, and satellite imagery to gather detailed information about Maine's coastal environment. They collaborated with several Maine-based organizations to analyze the data and create the maps.

How will CEMAP help Maine's coastal communities?

CEMAP will provide local officials, regulators, and businesses with valuable data to help them plan for the impacts of climate change, such as sea-level rise, and manage coastal resources like seaweed harvesting in a sustainable way.

Home / Environment / Coastal Mapping Empowers Maine's Climate Resilience Efforts

Coastal Mapping Empowers Maine's Climate Resilience Efforts

Q: What is the Coastal Ecosystem Map Application Platform (CEMAP)?

CEMAP is a new online platform that provides detailed mapping of Maine's coastline, including information on areas suitable for climate resilience projects and the location of underwater seaweed forests.

10 Oct

•

Summary

New high-definition map of Maine's coastline released
Map identifies best areas to fortify against sea-level rise
Funded by federal grants, despite recent cuts to climate research

Coastal Mapping Empowers Maine's Climate Resilience Efforts

In August 2025, a New England remote sensing company, Nearview, released a new high-definition map of Maine's 3,500-mile coastline. The map, called the Coastal Ecosystem Map Application Platform (CEMAP), aims to help local officials, regulators, and seaweed harvesters plan for climate change and manage the state's coastal resources.

The platform was developed over several years, with initial funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Despite recent cuts to federal climate change research under the Trump administration, Nearview was able to complete the project and make the data publicly available.

CEMAP includes five different maps, each providing unique insights. One map identifies the best stretches of coastline for dune stabilization and other climate resilience projects. Other maps detail the location and density of aquatic vegetation, such as wild seaweed forests, which could inform sustainable harvesting practices.