Wolfden Resources Corp. has submitted a rezoning petition to allow for a metal mine on 528 acres near Mt. Chase, close to Baxter State Park and Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. This is a bad idea for Aroostook County and for the state of Maine.
First, they propose to dispose of mine waste, or “tailings,” in enclosed tunnels and shafts even though Maine laws prohibit this. The Department of Environmental Protection specifically banned this practice because it contaminates groundwater.
Second, mining often damages the surrounding environment, so only companies that have strong finances can afford to undertake such projects. The financial statement from their initial petition shows they do not have adequate funding.
Finally, mining operations require huge amounts of water to function properly. Wolfden has no history of being able to handle the mine’s wastewater discharges.
This is a prime example of where the state Land Use Planning Commission should not grant a rezoning permit. There are no tangible benefits to Maine, only tremendous potential damage to the water resources and environment of the area.
Edward Simmons
Yarmouth
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