Popular Magazine Claims Maine is One of the Cleanest States in the Nation

You can breathe easy, Mainers. At least, that's according to a new report on pollution.

According to the US News & World Report's latest findings on the pollution problem in America, Maine has been listed as the 5th cleanest state in the nation. That is absolutely something to be proud of.

The Pine Treet State scored highly in both metrics used by the iconic news magazine, those being toxic chemical pollution and long-term, chronic health risks. Maine came in with a ranking of 9th lowest for toxic pollution, and 10th lowest in health risks. Those are quite the impressive numbers, and a testament to the evolutionary road the state has taken.

I must say, I'm not surprised whatsoever by these rankings. Mainers care deeply about their state. Having lived here the majority of my life has allowed me to see this firsthand. Folks care deeply about the preservation of this great state, so many more generations can enjoy its wonder and beauty. There is an underlying respect that truly runs deep.

Now, Maine isn't devoid of environmental problems. Issues like forever chemicals and coastal erosion seem to be taking up the throne in the problem department. Thankfully these issues are getting plenty of attention, with hope that they can be mitigated in the future.

Overall, Maine is doing a pretty darn good job, and clearly a much better job than the majority of the country. As mentioned earlier, that is certainly something to be proud of.

While Maine does come in at number five in the country, it's not the highest-ranked New England state. That would go to Vermont, which came in as the least-polluted state in the nation. Congrats to those Green Mountain folks. Here is a look at the rest of New England's rankings.

2. New Hampshire

7. Rhode Island

18. Connecticut

19. Massachusetts

I can't believe Connecticut finally didn't finish last.

As for the most polluted state, that award goes to Indiana. I mean, it's the home to the city of Gary. That can't be helpful.

You can check out the entire list here.