PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The St. John & Aroostook Resource Conservation and Development Council held its annual meeting in December at the Grant Memorial United Methodist Church, with about 20 people present.
Chairing the event again this year was Paul Bernier, assisted by Secretary/Treasurer Tony Levesque. The business meeting kicked off with the acceptance of the May 14, 2012 minutes, followed by Levesque’s presentation of the treasurer’s report.
Under the Maine Association update, Levesque talked of efforts around the state to coordinate projects, although he said “if we had more of a handle on what was planned, the amount involved, etc., we would be more supportive.”
Members discussed the feasibility of different projects but agreed funds were limited at this time due to a declining membership and a poor economy forcing cuts for agencies such as the RC&D.
Participants observed a moment of silence for John Edgecomb, of Mapleton, a member who died last fall. Levesque said Edgecomb would be remembered for his commitment and dedication to the organization.
Mark Hews provided a presentation for the Mine Association of Nonprofits. Hews spoke of his mission to strengthen leadership through education and training to better serve constituents.
“Statewide we’re reaching out and assisting in developing programming to address the needs of rural communities,” said Hews. He stressed the importance of “creating a relationship and explaining the value of nonprofits in Maine.”
“The challenge is putting the groundwork in place while linking resources,” said Hews.
Bob Dorsey, president of Aroostook Partnership for Progress, gave an update on renewable energy projects and other developments in the region.
Dorsey said one local strength was renewable energy.
“As a result, we’ve created a renewable energy working group,” he said.
Another promising sector is mining.
“Mining will add 600 jobs and result in an $800 million investment, creating about $45 million in gross domestic product over 15-25 years. After mining has been completed, the water purification system will continue to operate to ensure water quality,” said Dorsey.
Dorsey discussed biomass operations in the state, praising Matt Bell’s facility, Northeast Pellets in Ashland.
“Matt had to start a second shift — created at least five jobs,” said Dorsey, noting APP encourages buying local because it “creates jobs and supports the local economy.”
Jim Gerritsen, an organic farmer from Bridgewater, provided an update on the Osgata vs. Monsanto lawsuit. He explained that current copyright laws allow corporations like Monsanto to threaten organic farmers’ livelihood, because genetically-engineered crops are patented and when those plants cross-pollinate with organic crops, subsequent seeds carry the patented DNA and thus create the possibility of lawsuits, even though organic farmers have no way of blocking such pollination.
“The problem with crops such as corn and canola, pollen is extremely mobile. Monsanto has shown no interest in restricting that pollution,” said Gerritsen. “Now organic farmers have to work to keep the potential hazard out of their crops.”
Gerritsen said unless something is done about genetically-modified and patented crops, there will come a day when organic crops no longer exist.
“Everything will be descended from genetically modified produce,” he said.
Jay Kamm, Northern Maine Development Commission, reviewed the Brownfield initiative and work being done with the Department of Environmental Protection to address problem sites in the region.
“The program is entirely voluntary. We make sure property owners sign consent forms” before any work gets under way, said Kamm, noting over 60 sites are currently being worked on.
Members approved a motion to enter a proposed partnership between MANP and RC&D, then tabled the Heart of Maine RC&D proposed collaborative project. It was voted to suspend SJARC&D membership dues solicitation unless a need arises in the future.
The meeting closed with comments from the floor.
RC&D’s next meeting has been set for Thursday, Feb. 7.
