Dear Editor:

The family that owns and operates Chewonki Campground are some of the most hardworking, industrious and kind people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. Their spirit, kindness and modesty are equally as inspiring as the beautiful coastal property they maintain.

I am appalled by the suggestion of clearing, cutting or making any changes to the landscape of a Maine family business without explicit consent of the property owners. Especially considering the importance of the environment, which has been carefully cultivated for decades, in the services provided by the campground, often lauded for its private and shady sites.

These actions will no doubt effect the atmosphere and ultimately the business in a negative way. I would wager conservatively that the campground alone generates thousands of customers for Wiscasset and surrounding area businesses by bringing people into the area. In comparison, it seems an airport serves more as a gas station or pit stop than an attraction. Any locals who own and operate planes are likely to leave the community and spend their money elsewhere, aren't they?

In a state economy that is based on tourism, it seems that Chewonki Campground is adding value at the local level far beyond what's provided by the airport.

I am baffled that alternative options that are nondestructive to this Maine family business are not being considered. Could the Wiscasset runway be extended in the opposite direction? Has any energy or assessment been done to investigate this option? The property on the other side of 144 appears to be an empty field, could the road be rerouted to accommodate a runway expansion?

I don't know if these questions have been asked already, but cutting down trees at Chewonki Campground seems drastic, entirely irreversible and detrimental to the family business, the community of customers and ultimately the community of local business owners.

It seems wrong that something uniquely Maine and personal could be steamrolled by an “organization” like the airport.

I ask you to please consider these authentic Maine women, their local family run business, and the natural beauty that makes our state a place we are proud to call home when those from away come to visit. 

Dustin Sleight
Orono