This past weekend, one of Maine’s foremost environmentalists shared with me a personal statement about climate change, offshore wind and the need for what many call a wind port. “Should it be built at the industrialized Mack Point or at undeveloped Sears Island, both near Searsport on Penobscot Bay,” she asked?
Perhaps her two most striking points of fact pointed out that (1) modern dredging methods, needed to develop Mack Point, would minimize resuspension of sediment with little environmental threat whereas (2) deforestation of 75 or more acres of mature forest on Sears Island would wipe out 2 tons of carbon dioxide sequestration per acre every year.
“Climate change is already having a devastating effect on Maine’s coast,” the statement explained.
There was more, but in conclusion, this person, known for careful analysis of complex environmental issues, wrote:
“If you want to build a functioning wind port as soon as possible, then Mack Point is your clear choice. If you want to conserve natural resources, support our fisheries and keep our air clean, then leave Sears Island untouched.
“If you want to leave a better future for your grandchildren, then we need offshore wind power as soon as possible, along with undeveloped land that will enable them and all living creatures to thrive.”
On Monday, January 22, the Bangor Daily News published a beautiful, heart-felt letter by Sears Island Forever Friend Sally Jones that began, “Sears Island’s the beating heart of Penobscot Bay.” She urged Maine to follow the path of “true balance” in pursuit of the offshore wind marshalling port, building at Mack Point and saving Sears Island.
Read her full letter here:
Alliance for Sears Island 