Adults participate in a facilitated group discussion around a conference table.

UMaine Extension offers mediation and conflict management training

September 4, 2026 Extension Media Release

BANGOR, Maine – University of Maine Cooperative Extension will offer a 40-hour Basic Mediation Training and Certification through its Maine Agricultural Mediation Program (MAMP). Training sessions are on October 21, 22, 23, 29, and 30, 2026, from 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. at the Penobscot County Extension Office, 307 Maine Avenue in Bangor. 

The training is designed for land and sea farmers, fishermen, and industry workers, agricultural service providers, and members of the general public interested in developing conflict-resolution skills or becoming mediators. Participants will engage in demonstrations, discussions, exercises, videos, and role-play practice. Sessions will focus on facilitative and transformative mediation models. Co-instructors Karen Groat and Leah Boyd will lead sessions, supported by MAMP staff and guest mediator coaches. Topics covered during the training include conflict theory and stress response; ways to build and enhance participant rapport; effective interventions; the impact of mediator influence and bias; and the professional limitations of mediation practice. Participants who complete all sessions will receive the 40-hour basic mediation training certificate.

Training fees vary by participant group, ranging from no cost to $1,250; need-based partial scholarships are available. The registration deadline is October 1, 2026. For more information and to register, visit the program webpage. To request a reasonable accommodation, contact Lucy Wess at 207.974.9637 or lucille.wess@maine.edu.

About University of Maine Cooperative Extension

As a trusted resource for over 100 years, Extension has supported UMaine’s land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and grow the food-based economy, focusing on aspects from production and processing to nutrition, food safety and food security. Extension also conducts the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in Maine through 4-H which offers hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement and creates a positive environment where participants are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.