Presentation in Falmouth: Open Pit Mining in Maine

Please join us on Monday, April 8, on what you need to know about open pit mining in Maine. For the first time in more than a decade, out-of-state mining companies are considering mining for copper, zinc, and other metals in Maine. This could have huge environmental consequences for some of Maine’s most pristine and treasured natural areas. Most of the discussion over the past year has focused on Bald Mountain, owned by J.D. Irving, in central Aroostook County. The impacts on the Bald Mountain area could be enormous. Mining activities there would likely drain into the Fish River and the Fish River Chain of Lakes, which provide some of the best brook trout fishing in the country. But the risk of open-pit mining extends beyond Bald Mountain. There are many other places in Maine where companies may want to pursue open-pit mining. NRCM Staff Scientist Nick Bennett and Jeff Reardon of Trout Unlimited will discuss the major issues associated with open-pit mining, focusing on lessons learned from other states and describing what’s ahead here in Maine. The program, sponsored jointly by Maine Audubon and the Maine Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club, will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2013 from 7-8:30 pm at Gilsland Farm, Maine Audubon headquarters on 20 Gilsland Farm Rd”>Gilsland Farm Road in Falmouth. Parking is plentiful and free. The program is free and open to the public so bring a friend. A potluck dinner for all will begin at 6 pm followed by the program at 7 pm. Attendees are encouraged to bring a potluck item and their own dinnerware (plate, utensils etc.). Drinks will be available. FMI download a flyer (84KB PDF) or email AMC Maine Education Chair John Mullens or Karen Herold.