The proposed expansion would further harm the lands, waters, and overall health of already overburdened communities in Maine. Photo: Shutterstock.
The expansion of Juniper Ridge under Casella perpetuates harms against the Penobscot Nation, who are the original stewards of these lands and waters dating back over 10,000 years. We add our voice to the assertion that there is no public benefit, quite the opposite.”
– Maulian Bryant, Penobscot Tribal Ambassador
The Problem
For years, Casella’s Juniper Ridge Landfill in Old Town and Alton, Maine, has contaminated nearby communities, including the Penobscot Nation. This facility has released dangerous chemicals into the Penobscot River, a site sacred to the Penobscot people. Residents living near the landfill report severe air pollution, persistent foul odors, and accidental fires that make ash rain down into people’s yards, causing burning eyes and sore throats. These issues have posed ongoing risks to the well-being of the surrounding populations.
Now, a proposal to expand this waste site — to add space to handle the equivalent of 8.6 Empire State Buildings worth of trash — threatens to worsen current environmental hazards. The company claims the expansion will benefit neighbors, but that’s far from the truth. The Penobscot Nation and nearby communities already bear an unjust share of environmental burdens. This expansion would further harm their lands, waters, and overall health.
These communities face significant challenges in making their voices heard. Residents often lack the resources to fight against powerful companies and the opportunities to participate meaningfully in public discussions about the landfill’s impact.
CLF in Action
Our goal has been clear from the start: to demand a thorough review of the proposed landfill that leaves no stone unturned. We have been at the forefront of exposing the severe environmental consequences of this proposed project. This means amplifying the voices and concerns of those who can best speak to this landfill’s true impact: residents.
CLF has been on the ground, working with members of the Penobscot Nation, Maine residents, local grassroots advocates, and community groups. We have attended public meetings, publicly commented against the expansion, helped people express their concerns, and fought to ensure everyone has the tools and ability to speak out. Our efforts have led to successful changes that made public meetings more accessible by including virtual comment options and adjusting comment timelines. All neighbors should have a fair and meaningful chance to weigh in on the future of their communities.
Progress: Making Way for People’s Voices
The clock started ticking in June 2024 when Casella applied for a public benefit determination — a process to assess if the proposed expansion would benefit the community. By law, Maine only had 60 days to review the application, hold public hearings, gather and consider feedback, and issue a decision. But, without a guarantee the whole period would be used, we worried a rushed process could overlook crucial issues.
Our swift opposition pushed the right buttons. By July 2024, the state had already asked the landfill operators for more details. Casella also had to detail its plans to manage all toxic chemicals that could seep into the Penobscot River. This request was a significant step for the proposed expansion to undergo a more rigorous assessment.
Our advocacy also led the state to extend the deadline for public comments through Sept. 6, 2024, and the review period through Sept. 23, 2024. This extension will be crucial to allow the public, our partners, and state officials enough time to carefully examine and respond to Casella’s 600+ page application and any new information they have submitted. The public deserves the opportunity to set the record straight before the state makes any final decisions. It’s about more than slowing down the process — it’s about ensuring it’s done right, with full consideration of the health and safety of the people who call this area home.
Next Steps: Stronger Environmental Justice Laws
While we’re focused on stopping the landfill, this fight has brought to light another issue: Maine needs stronger environmental justice laws. Too often, vulnerable communities — like those near the Juniper Ridge Landfill — shoulder the heaviest environmental burdens. CLF is joining partners to push for new laws to safeguard these neighborhoods. We’re advocating for legislation that does two crucial things: prevent harmful projects from worsening existing problems, and empower every Maine resident — especially those most at risk — with the protections they deserve.
Casella has spent two decades filling the landfill with toxic substances and importing massive volumes of debris into our communities. It’s time for the state to step up: first, by saying no to this landfill expansion, then by ending the contract with Casella, and finally, by protecting our right to enjoy the long-term, healthy environment we all deserve.
How You Can Help
Your voice can make a difference in protecting communities in Maine. Stand with residents against the Juniper Ridge Landfill expansion by urging your elected officials to support stronger environmental justice laws. Together, we can ensure a healthier, more just future for all.
