In a recent op-ed on the Central Maine Power corridor (Maine Voices, Jan. 26), Orlando Delogu sought to disregard the majority of Mainers’ valid concerns about the significant harm that the CMP transmission line would have on our environment, people, national reputation and economy.

This photo simulation shows the view northwest from Wilson Hill Road in West Forks toward the proposed CMP transmission line. Rendering/simulation courtesy of CMP

Delogu characterized the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ review of the project as sufficient – but what is sufficient? I was in that hearing room in Lewiston when over 300 people testified in fervent opposition to the proposal. The Corps, which held this hearing to acquire information for their decision, either ignored our concerns or had already come to a conclusion.

Contrary to CMP marketing, the corridor would not cut through wasteland but instead, would interrupt and destroy some of the most beautiful forests and wetlands on the East Coast. I thru-hiked the entire Appalachian Trail, from Georgia to Maine, and know from experience that our rugged and untouched wilderness is unique. It is a finite resource that we must protect. If there were evidence that the CMP corridor would drastically reduce global greenhouse gases, I could support it for the greater good of our planet. Unfortunately, there is no such evidence. We need an unbiased and comprehensive environmental impact study.

Delogu asked whether CMP’s “due process” rights are being unfairly compromised, but I believe we should instead be asking if the federal and state governments’ reviews of this project were sufficient enough to match the scope and impact of the project. To me, and many other Mainers, they were not enough.

Chloe Rowse
Falmouth