Our Hearts and Soil are in Danger

Facts about Lane Construction's Proposal

Smokestacks rising over the fields and forests of Washington? If that sounds crazy, read the facts about a proposal to locate a hard rock quarry and mineral processing plant on the Vanner Farm:

The Lane Construction Corp. of Meriden, CT, a multi-state road building company, has applied for a permit to construct a
HARD ROCK QUARRY
CEMENT PLANT
ASPHALT PLANT and
ROCK CRUSHER
in the heart of Washington's Farm and Forest District.

Lane's application to the Washington Planning Board also states that:

• Blasting will be required on a continuing basis to extract the rock.
• The project includes several underground fuel tanks although it sits upon an aquifer. Toxic chemicals will be in constant use.
• The company has a 50-year lease on a 56-acre site.
• During peak business hours, Lane trucks alone will make 48 trips an hour (24 round trips) on Vanner Road.

Lane's application won't tell you that:

• Lane's proposed uses would mar a view that is spectacular enough to be included in a tour guide, Maine's Most Scenic Roads (Down East Books).
• Lane Construction Corp. is the 8th largest Maine environmental violator as ranked by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (MaineBiz 4/16/01).
• The site is near Davis Stream, Jackson Brook and Vanner Brook - all designated Shoreland Districts with associated wetlands.
• This massive project would create industrial activity in a scenic, rural farm and forest district that is made up mainly of homes, farms, blueberry fields, tree farms, logging, and livestock.

Industrial uses are prohibited in this Farm and Forest District. But Lane thinks we're not paying attention. We need everyone to pay attention.

Land Association of Washington, PO Box 145, Washington, ME 04574, 845-2648.