CMP and Marine Mammals of Maine Celebrate the Return of ‘Circuit’ the Harbor Seal to the Atlantic Ocean (with B/Roll)

The CMP sponsored and named seal, Circuit, was released into the Atlantic Ocean earlier this week with Marine Mammals of Maine 

 

Augusta, ME  - August 06, 2025  - Central Maine Power (CMP), a subsidiary of Avangrid Inc., in partnership with Marine Mammals of Maine (MMoME) is thrilled to share the heartwarming story of Circuit, a harbor seal pup sponsored by CMP, who made his return to the Atlantic Ocean earlier this week. The release took place on Monday, August 4, in Phippsburg, Maine. 

 

A CMP team joined MMoME in Phippsburg to witness Circuit’s release — a joyful moment marking the end of his rehabilitation journey and the beginning of his life back in the wild. 

 

Circuit was discovered in May on a private property in Owls Head, Maine. At the time, he was only a few days old, still bearing his umbilical cord. MMoME monitored the pup in hopes of a maternal reunion but ultimately determined he had been abandoned. Without intervention, Circuit would not have survived, as harbor seal pups rely on their mothers for nourishment and protection during the first 4–6 weeks of life. 

 

Thanks to MMoME’s expert care and CMP’s sponsorship, Circuit was transported to MMoME’s rehabilitation facility, where he received round-the-clock care, including frequent feedings, medical treatment, and enrichment activities. Over the course of his recovery, Circuit learned to eat fish independently, gained weight, and grew strong enough to return to his ocean home. 

 

“Our partnership with Marine Mammals of Maine is a reflection of CMP’s deep commitment to the communities we serve and the environment we all share," said Katie Yates, Director of Community Relations for Central Maine Power.  "Circuit’s story is a powerful example of what can happen when organizations come together with a shared purpose. We’re proud to stand alongside MMoME in their tireless efforts to protect marine life, educate the public, and respond to urgent needs along our shores. This partnership is one we value deeply, and we look forward to continuing to support MMoME’s incredible work throughout Maine."  

 

"The support from Central Maine Power has been truly meaningful - not just for the animals in our care, but for the broader mission we serve," said Lynda Doughty, Executive Director of Marine Mammals of Maine. "CMP understands that protecting Maine’s marine wildlife is a community effort, and their partnership helps us respond quickly to animals in need, educate the public, and promote conservation across the state. Their sponsorship of Circuit is a perfect example of how collaboration can make a real difference.” 

 

Since 2023, CMP has proudly partnered with MMoME to support the response, rehabilitation, and release of seals in need along Maine’s coast. Through this collaboration, CMP has sponsored the rehabilitation of several seals, including Breaker in 2023 and Amp in 2024, each named by CMP employees as part of the company’s commitment to community engagement and environmental stewardship. 

 

CMP employees have also volunteered their time at MMoME’s rehabilitation facility in Brunswick, Maine, assisting with animal care and learning firsthand about the organization’s critical work. This partnership reflects CMP’s dedication to supporting local nonprofits that make a meaningful impact on Maine’s wildlife and coastal communities. 

 

Downloadable video of the seal release taken on 8/4/25 that news media may use is available at this link.