[Gift article] [#Maine] State Lawmakers consider new mining rules that could open door to #LithiumMining
"Some #environmental groups say the rules that would allow for open pit mineral mining provide ample safeguards, but others demand more preliminary testing, smaller pit size limits, stronger reclamation standards and #DarkSkies protections.
"But Eliza Townsend, the [the Appalachian Mountain Club's] conservation policy director, argued that an open pit mine is never going to be anything more than a glorified 'hole in the ground.' Allowing a pit to grow in size would tarnish the unspoiled natural beauty that draws hikers to Maine, especially when the pit is dug into a mountaintop.
"Environmental critics asked lawmakers to require an open-pit mining applicant to use so-called dark sky lighting to minimize the impact on wildlife, neighbors and hikers camping near the #Newry lithium site, including those that use the #GraftonNotch loop trail.
"Some Republicans wanted the committee to approve the rules Monday, arguing the state Legislature had already voted for a mineral mining exemption last year when it voted to amend the mining law and order the drafting of new rules.
"Democrats, however, appeared stung by criticism from environmental advocates who said the committee was considering rules that would open the door to #OpenPit #mining at the same time the legislative calendar had said it would be working on another bill to strengthen the state’s mining law."