Well done, Molly Hutchins (Letter: “No man is an island”). But here we are.

This did not happen overnight. Six years ago dump trucks of blasted earth were being carried off the south end of Pratt’s Island and replaced with new material…literally hundreds of truckloads.

Questions I had then remain today … why was such a large scale project ever permitted? Was appropriate consideration given to the impact this would have on our local community or the fragile island environment? Service vehicles of every kind are now required to maintain a $30 million infrastructure. Traffic volume for fundraisers is an issue. What are the implications for our town and peninsula?

Gus’s was purchased to provide waterfront access for residents and commercial fishermen alike. At least one commercial lobsterman came in from hauling last week and found a “please park elsewhere” sign on his truck. Does this town-owned property cater to the restaurant leaseholder far more than the other stakeholders, and if so why?

The previously mentioned leaseholder is also the homeowner on Pratt’s Island who is keen to blast, dredge and alter the lower portion of South Beach, so that he may dock a “29-foot boat” on all tides.

Bud Brown, who is spearheading this effort for the homeowner, is quick to point out “that it will look pretty much the same as it does now.” Rachel Carson, whose work was made into a documentary at that location, might beg to differ. Southport likes to claim Rachel Carson as “our own.” Can we really say that with a straight face anymore?

Please consider … the dock permit granted at this location in 2010 states “tidal limitations.” It also concludes, “The applicant found there is a boatyard on Southport, however, the use of this facility is expensive and therefore not a feasible option.”

This time I cannot sit idly by while part of South Beach below mean low tide and some surrounding ledge are taken away as “dredge spoils” on a barge. Does Nature really have to pay for this arrogance? Do we?

Let town leadership know where you stand. Our self sufficient Maine Island community needs your voice: no_blasting@yahoo.com.

Jennifer E. Wickline
Southport