Opposition is mounting to expansion plans at the state-owned Juniper Ridge Landfill in Old Town, which is the largest landfill in Maine.
The Penobscot Nation and the national environmental group Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) filed an appeal this week, saying the expansion would worsen environmental hazards.
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection approved the expansion last month, saying it meets the state’s waste reduction plan.
The department is not commenting on the pending appeal.
A news release from Conservation Law Foundation said the landfill has contaminated nearby communities, including the Penobscot Nation, and has released dangerous chemicals into the Penobscot River, a site sacred to the Penobscot people.
“Challenging this decision is not just about protecting our environment—it’s about safeguarding the future and ensuring justice for the communities most impacted,” said Director of Communities and Toxics at CLF Alexandra St. Pierre. “The expansion of harmful landfills threatens our environment, our communities, and our health. We must stand together to demand accountability and ensure that sustainable, forward-thinking solutions take precedence over short-term convenience.”
According to CLF, the effects of the pollution of Juniper Ridge have long been reported by nearby residents to the Juniper Ridge Landfill have long complained about air pollution and debilitating odors from the facility. CLF claims mismanagement last year caused an uncontrolled burn at the landfill, with residents reporting burning eyes and sore throats from the fires.
Penobscot Nation Tribal Chief Kirk Francis says they’re highly concerned about pollution from the river infringing on the Penobscot River.
“We consider the Penobscot River to be the oldest citizen of our tribe. It does more than carry water – it carries life, culture, and the history for our people,” said Penobscot Francis. “The continued contamination from this landfill endangers that legacy and puts the health of our community at risk. We are firmly opposing this harmful expansion to protect our water, environment, and history for future generations of the Penobscot Nation.”
